President Bola Tinubu has officially requested the Senate to confirm Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS). The request, made through a letter on Friday, follows Oluyede’s appointment as Acting COAS on October 30, following the illness and subsequent passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja on November 5.

In his letter, President Tinubu expressed confidence in Oluyede’s leadership capabilities, professional integrity, and vast experience, which he believes will enable him to effectively guide the Nigerian Army in maintaining national security and stability.

Oluyede, a member of the 39th Regular Course, has held several high-ranking positions within the Nigerian Army. Prior to becoming Acting COAS, he was the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps in Jaji, Kaduna. Having been commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992, he rose to the rank of Major-General in 2020.

His career includes numerous command roles, such as Platoon Commander, adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School. Oluyede has also participated in several key operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

Oluyede’s exceptional service has earned him numerous honors, including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award, and various other medals acknowledging his military leadership and operational achievements.

Married with three children, Oluyede’s career stands as a testament to his dedication to Nigeria’s military service. The Senate’s confirmation of his appointment is now awaited.