By Nathaniel Zacchaeus and Chukwudi Obasi, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has written to the National Assembly to confirm Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede’s appointment as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.
Tinubu’s letter of request was read at plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The President had earlier appointed Oluyede as the acting COAS following the demise of Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who held the position.
The letter was titled “Confirmation of appointment of Lieutenant General Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff.”
It read, “In accordance with the provisions of Section 218, Subsection 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, and Section 18, Subsection 1 of the Armed Forces Act, I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of Lieutenant General Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Lieutenant General Oluyede has been serving diligently and actively since his appointment. He has displayed exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our nation’s security, continued stability, and the progress of our Armed Forces.
“His qualifications, experience, and contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation make him well-suited for this important role.
“While I am confident that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominee expeditiously, please accept, Distinguished Senate President and Distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Army for further legislative work and to report back to plenary as soon as practicable.
The President’s letter was also presented on the floor of the House by the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas.
The letter was referred to the House Committee on Army for further legislative action.
