The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has vowed to bring lasting peace to Nigeria if confirmed in the substantive position. He made this promise while addressing the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Defence and Army at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Wednesday.
Oluyede, who was nominated following the tragic passing of the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, stressed that the country’s security landscape demands a united national effort. He called for strengthened cooperation among security agencies, and emphasized the need for bilateral and multilateral alliances with neighboring countries to enhance regional security.
“I am honored to be considered for this responsibility and look forward to working closely with the National Assembly and all stakeholders to bring lasting peace to every part of Nigeria,” Oluyede said. “The security challenges we face today require the collective effort of all Nigerians to overcome, and I am committed to being a part of the solution.”
Oluyede recounted his long-standing service in the Nigerian Army, noting that his 30 years of experience, particularly in senior operational and management roles, have adequately prepared him for the Chief of Army Staff role. He expressed his confidence in continuing the Army’s excellent work and addressing the security challenges that persist.
Reflecting on the Army’s recent challenges and achievements, Oluyede acknowledged that while the Army has made strides, more must be done. He further pointed out that if confirmed, he would bring a proactive approach to the Army’s operations, ensuring it fulfills its constitutional responsibilities.
Highlighting the importance of air support, Oluyede explained that the Army requires tactical aircraft to enhance operational efficiency. “We need aircraft that can provide immediate support during operations. These tactical aircraft will play a crucial role in ensuring the Army’s success in combat operations,” he added.
Oluyede also praised the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that it is on the right track in creating a security environment conducive to the nation’s socio-economic development.
In his remarks, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence Babajimi Benson, acknowledged the Armed Forces’ significant contributions to Nigeria’s security efforts over the past decade. However, he also pointed out the evolving nature of security threats, ranging from insurgency to cyber threats, and underscored the need for the military to adopt innovative strategies to combat these challenges.
“We must continue to equip our military to face both conventional and emerging threats. The need for well-trained personnel and adequate resources remains crucial in securing Nigeria’s future,” Benson said.
He also stressed the importance of synergy among security agencies, the welfare of troops, and the trust of Nigerians in the military’s leadership. Benson assured that the committee would remain committed to providing the necessary legislative support to ensure the Armed Forces’ effectiveness.
The outcome of the screening exercise will be reviewed and presented to the House during plenary on Thursday, where the committee will further discuss Oluyede’s confirmation.
