The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has vowed to restore peace and stability across Nigeria if confirmed by the National Assembly......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Oluyede made this commitment on Wednesday during his screening before the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Defence and Army at the National Assembly Complex. His nomination follows the recent passing of Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who previously held the position of Chief of Army Staff.
In his remarks, Oluyede acknowledged the gravity of his prospective role and pledged to work collaboratively with Nigeria’s neighbors and other stakeholders to combat insecurity.
“I am deeply honored to be considered worthy of this responsibility,”Oluyede stated.“I look forward to working alongside the National Assembly and other stakeholders to bring lasting peace to every corner of Nigeria. This is a mission I am committed to fulfilling.”
Reflecting on his journey, Oluyede noted that he had served in various capacities within the Nigerian Army for over three decades. He highlighted his extensive exposure to national security issues and his recent involvement in senior operational and management roles, which he believes have adequately prepared him for the role of Chief of Army Staff.
“Over the past five years, I have been deeply involved in the operations and administration of the Nigerian Army,”he explained.“While I cannot dissociate myself from both the successes and setbacks of the Army in this period, my nomination offers me a privileged opportunity to spearhead positive changes that will enable the Army to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities effectively.”
Oluyede also emphasized the need for modern resources to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges, stating that acquiring aircraft for military operations is critical to enhancing the Army’s effectiveness.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, commended Oluyede’s commitment and underscored the importance of a strategic approach to national security. He noted that the complexities of modern threats—spanning cyberspace, economics, and socio-political domains—require innovative strategies and a well-equipped military.
“The evolving nature of global security demands forward-thinking solutions,”Benson said.“We must ensure our armed forces are prepared to address both conventional and emerging threats.”
He assured that the National Assembly would continue to provide the necessary legal and financial support to strengthen the military. However, Benson reminded Oluyede of the weighty responsibilities tied to the role.
“If confirmed, you will be tasked with fostering synergy among security agencies, prioritizing the welfare of troops, and earning the trust of Nigerians,”Benson stated.“This committee will hold you accountable to ensure that the expectations of our constituents and the nation are met.”
As the screening concluded, Oluyede reaffirmed his readiness to lead and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He pledged to uphold professionalism, transparency, and excellence in discharging his duties if confirmed as the 24th Chief of Army Staff.
