Nigerian Reps approve Oluyede’s appointment as CoAS

The House of Representatives has confirmed Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following a nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The decision was made during Thursday’s plenary session, led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, after the House Committees on Defence and Army, chaired by Hon. Babajimi Benson, submitted their recommendations.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede appeared before the committees on Wednesday for a screening session, after the President formally sought the National Assembly’s approval of his appointment.

President Tinubu had initially appointed Oluyede as acting COAS on October 30, following the prolonged illness of the former army chief, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5.

In a letter submitted earlier this week, Tinubu highlighted Oluyede’s dedication to Nigeria’s security and urged lawmakers to confirm him promptly.

During the screening, Oluyede, joined by Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Chris Musa and other senior military officials, pledged to enhance peace and security across the nation if confirmed.

He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with neighbouring countries to combat regional insecurity and promote stability.