Gen. Olufemi Oluyede Becomes Chief of Army Staff After Senate Approval

Senate Confirms Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as New Chief of Army Staff Amid Security Challenges

The Senate has officially confirmed Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army. This decision came after the Senate’s Committee on Army, led by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua from APC Katsina Central, presented its report during a plenary session.

During the proceedings, Senator Yar’Adua noted that the committee had previously screened General Oluyede in his role as the acting COAS on November 26 and found him qualified for the permanent position, meeting all necessary criteria for such a prestigious role. The appointment received unanimous support from all Senators present during the discussion.

Following the confirmation, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio expressed optimism that General Oluyede would contribute significantly to mitigating the escalating security challenges posed by terrorists and bandits across the nation in the near future. He also extended his congratulations to the newly appointed COAS and offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the late Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, Oluyede’s predecessor, who recently passed away.

President Bola Tinubu had previously submitted a request to the Senate to screen and confirm Lt. General Oluyede as the substantive Army Chief. In a letter addressed to Senate President Akpabio, which was presented during last Tuesday’s session, President Tinubu emphasized that this request aligned with Section 218 (2) of the Constitution of Nigeria (1999, as amended) and Section 18 (1) of the Armed Forces Act.

In his letter, President Tinubu highlighted General Oluyede’s extensive experience and dedication, praising him as an officer who has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to the nation’s security and unity. General Oluyede had been serving as the Acting Chief of Army Staff since October 30, taking over the role due to the health issues of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja.