President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff.
This was disclosed in a letter presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary session.
The president’s appeal aligns with Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.
Tinubu commended Oluyede for his “exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment to national security and stability” since taking on the role in an acting capacity.
The president highlighted Oluyede’s leadership skills, emphasizing that his confirmation would ensure continuity in the Nigerian Army’s leadership. “His qualifications, experience, and contributions make him well suited for this vital role,” Tinubu said.
Expressing confidence in Oluyede’s ability to advance the Nigerian Armed Forces, the president urged the Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation process.
The Senate has referred the nomination to its Committee on the Army for evaluation, directing the committee to report back to the plenary for final deliberation.
Lieutenant-General Oluyede was appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff following the illness of his predecessor, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, who later passed away.
Tinubu noted that Oluyede’s appointment as the substantive Army Chief would strengthen efforts to maintain security and stability in the country. “The Nigerian Army requires capable and consistent leadership to address the nation’s security challenges effectively,” he added.
