President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.
The request, in line with Section 218 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18 (1) of the Armed Forces Act, was conveyed in a letter read during Tuesday’s plenary session by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Tinubu praised Oluyede’s leadership qualities, noting his “exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment to national security and stability” since assuming office in an acting capacity.
Tinubu expressed confidence in Oluyede’s ability to drive the progress of the Nigerian Armed Forces and urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process.
“In accordance with constitutional provisions and Armed Forces regulations, his qualifications, experience, and contributions make him well suited for this vital role,” Tinubu wrote, stressing the need for continuity in the Nigerian Army’s leadership.
The Senate subsequently referred the matter to its Committee on the Army, directing it to screen the nominee and report back to the plenary for further consideration.
Oluyede stepped into the role following the tragic death of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The President appointed Oluyede as the acting Chief of Staff following the illness of Taoreed Lagbaja, who later passed away.