By Gloria Ikibah
The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured Nigerians of his commitment to achieving lasting peace across the nation if confirmed in a substantive capacity.
Oluyede stated this when he appeared before the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Defence and Army at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Wednesday.
Addressing the committee, Oluyede emphasized the importance of collective efforts in tackling the country’s security challenges, and noted that every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace. He also highlighted the necessity for robust alliances with neighboring countries and strengthened collaboration among security agencies.
He said: “I am honored this evening to be considered worthy to play a part in these efforts, and I look forward to contributing my utmost best by working with the National Assembly and other stakeholders in bringing lasting peace to the length and breadth of our dear country, Nigeria.
“I humbly appear before you today to be confirmed as the 24th Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army. This opportunity has arisen due to the tragic passing of the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, after a brief illness.”
Oluyede recounted his recent appointment as Acting Chief of Army Staff, explaining that it was initially intended to be temporary.
“Before his passing, I had been appointed by Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to act in his place, pending his expected full recovery and resumption of duty. Following Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s demise and state funeral on 15 November 2024, Mr. President, in his wisdom, deemed me worthy to fully continue the excellent work being done by the Army, subject to confirmation by the National Assembly,” he said.
With over 30 years of service in the Nigerian Army, Oluyede assured the committee of his preparedness for the role.
“My exposure to national security issues at the junior, middle, and senior cadres of the military profession has prepared me adequately for this assignment. In the past five years, I have operated at senior operational and management levels of the Nigerian Army, gaining insight into its overall functioning,” he stated.
Acknowledging both the achievements and setbacks of the Army in recent years, the Acting COAS pledged to lead with a vision for positive change if confirmed; this is as he underscored the need for unity in addressing Nigeria’s security issues.
“I see my nomination as a privileged opportunity to bring about more positive changes to the Nigerian Army, enabling it to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities. If confirmed, I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me by Mr. President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people.
“The security environment in which we find ourselves as a nation requires a united effort from every Nigerian. We also need strong bilateral and multilateral alliances with our neighbors and enhanced collaboration among security agencies,” he said.
He commended President Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in creating a secure environment conducive to socioeconomic development, and stressed the importance of tactical air support for the Army.
“Aircrafts have different strata of employment. The air support we require as an army is at the tactical level, where aircraft are readily available during combat operations. The Air Force, being the main player in this sphere, provides strategic cover. We need tactical aircraft and an air wing to support our operations effectively,” he explained.
Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to fostering cooperation among the Armed Forces, noting that such synergy is essential for improving security and promoting socioeconomic development.
“There is already robust cooperation between the Armed Forces, and I intend to enhance this to ensure better outcomes for Nigeria,” he added.
During the screening, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson, addressed the evolving security challenges facing Nigeria.
He said: “Our country continues to grapple with an evolving spectrum of security threats, ranging from insurgency and banditry to communal clashes and cyber threats. For over a decade, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, launching numerous operations and providing vital support to internal security efforts,” Benson said.
He commended the Armed Forces for their recent successes, and acknowledged the need for sustained efforts to achieve peace.
“It is clear that more work remains to be done to achieve sustainable peace across all regions of the country,” he said.
The Chairman emphasized the importance of adopting innovative strategies to address modern security threats.
“The current dynamics of global security demand innovative and adaptive strategies. Threats are no longer confined to traditional battlefields; they now extend to cyberspace, economic domains, and even the socio-political fabric of nations. We must prioritize a forward-looking approach to national defense, ensuring that our military is well-equipped and adequately trained to address both conventional and emerging threats,” he stated.
The chairman further highlighted the role of the National Assembly in supporting the Armed Forces.
“Our task today is not only to assess the qualifications and vision of the nominee for Chief of Army Staff but also to establish a collaborative roadmap for tackling Nigeria’s security challenges. As partners in the pursuit of a secure and prosperous Nigeria, we remain steadfast in our commitment to legislative oversight and support for the Armed Forces,” he said.
Benson also assured the committee’s dedication to ensuring accountability and transparency in military operations.
“We will continue to provide the necessary legal frameworks, advocate for adequate funding, and monitor the implementation of appropriations. The position of Chief of Army Staff carries immense responsibility, and the individual in this role must lead with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the protection of lives and property,” he noted.
He therefore urged Oluyede to foster synergy among security agencies and prioritize the welfare of troops.
“If confirmed, you will be expected to foster synergy among security agencies, prioritize the welfare of troops, and uphold the trust of Nigerians. This committee will ask questions that reflect the concerns of our constituents and the nation. We urge you to provide comprehensive and candid responses to guide our deliberations,” Benson said.
Rep. Benson expressed optimism about Oluyede’s potential contributions to national security.
“Your role is pivotal in Nigeria’s journey toward lasting peace and stability. We look forward to working with you to achieve this goal,” he said.
The outcome of the screening exercise will be reviewed and presented to the House during plenary on Thursday.