President Bola Tinubu has requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.
The request, in line with Section 218 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18 (1) of the Armed Forces Act, was conveyed in a letter read during Tuesday’s plenary session by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Tinubu praised Oluyede’s leadership qualities, noting his “exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment to national security and stability” since assuming office in an acting capacity.
Tinubu expressed confidence in Oluyede’s ability to drive the progress of the Nigerian Armed Forces and urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process.
“In accordance with constitutional provisions and armed forces regulations, his qualifications, experience, and contributions make him well suited for this vital role,” Tinubu said, stressing the need for continuity in the Nigerian Army’s leadership.
READ ALSO: Oluyede assumes duty as Acting Chief of Army Staff
The Senate subsequently referred the matter to its Committee on the Army, directing it to screen the nominee and report back to the plenary for further consideration.
Credible News reports that Oluyede stepped into the role following the death of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja.
“Oluyede will act in the position pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,” read a statement by the presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Until his appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna.
The 56-year-old Oluyede and Lagbaja were coursemates and members of the 39th Regular Course.
He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987. He rose to Major-General in September 2020.
Oluyede has held many commands since his commissioning as an officer. He was Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer Guards Brigade, Commandant Amphibious Training School.
Credible News.ng
