President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to screen and confirm Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff. The request, conveyed in a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was read during plenary on Tuesday.
Citing constitutional provisions under Section 218 (2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and Section 18 (1) of the Armed Forces Act, Tinubu highlighted Oluyede’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to national security.
The President praised Oluyede for his diligent service in an acting capacity since his appointment on October 30, following the illness of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5. Tinubu urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process, emphasizing the importance of Oluyede’s contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation’s stability.
The Senate President referred the request to the Senate Committee on Army for screening and mandated a prompt report to the Committee of the Whole for further action. Akpabio expressed optimism about Oluyede’s ability to build on the positive start to his role as the acting Chief of Army Staff.
Lieutenant General Oluyede’s confirmation would cement his leadership of the Nigerian Army during a crucial period for the nation’s security and unity.
