Reps confirm Lt-Gen Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff
The House of Representatives on Thursday confirmed Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff. This confirmation comes on the heels of Oluyede’s screening by the Joint Committees on Defence and Army on Wednesday.
The confirmation was made possible after the committee chairman, Babajimi Benson, submitted the report during plenary, urging the House to confirm Oluyede. The House, presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, granted the prayer, paving the way for Oluyede’s confirmation.
During his screening, Oluyede assured the committee that the Nigerian Army is committed to bringing lasting peace to the country.
He emphasized the need for collective efforts from all stakeholders, including strong bilateral and multilateral alliances with neighboring countries, as well as deep collaboration and joint efforts by the services and other security agencies.
Oluyede also highlighted the importance of addressing the security challenges facing the country, stating that the Nigerian Army requires tactical aircraft to support its operations efficiently.
He explained that the air support required by the army is at the tactical level, while the air force provides strategic cover.
Babajimi Benson, chairman of the House Committee on Defence, noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria have been at the forefront of responding to security challenges over the past decade.
He assured that the House would continue to provide the necessary legal frameworks, advocate for adequate funding, and monitor the implementation of appropriations to ensure accountability and transparency in military operations.
