The House of Representatives has commenced the screening process for Oluyede Oluyede, the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following his nomination for confirmation as the substantive head of the Nigerian Army.
The screening, which is being conducted by the House Committees on Defence and Army, comes after President Bola Tinubu submitted a formal request for Oluyede’s confirmation on Tuesday.
Oluyede assumed the role of acting COAS on October 30, succeeding Taoreed Lagbaja, who stepped down due to health reasons which lead to his death. Before his current role, Oluyede was the 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna.
During his address to the committee, Oluyede highlighted his over three decades of service in the Nigerian Army, emphasizing his readiness to lead.
“My years of experience in addressing national security issues at various levels have adequately prepared me for this responsibility,” Oluyede said. “In the last five years, I’ve served in senior and management roles within the Army, contributing to its operations. I consider this nomination a privilege and an opportunity to implement transformative changes that will enhance the Army’s ability to meet its constitutional mandates.”
Oluyede also acknowledged both the accomplishments and challenges faced by the Army, stating that he remains committed to addressing them head-on.
Chairman of the Defence Committee, Babajimi Benson, underscored the importance of leadership and integrity in the COAS role, urging Oluyede to prioritize the welfare of troops.
Following his presentation, the screening moved to a closed-door executive session. The acting COAS was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers for the proceedings.
Oluyede, a graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 39th Regular Course, has risen steadily through the ranks, reaching the position of major general in 2020. His extensive background and experience are seen as assets to the leadership of the Nigerian Army.
