The House of Representatives has commenced the screening of Oluyede Oluyede, the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following President Bola Tinubu’s request for his confirmation as the substantive COAS. Oluyede is currently addressing the House Committee on Defence and Army as part of the confirmation process.

Oluyede was appointed acting COAS on October 30, succeeding Taoreed Lagbaja, who stepped down due to a prolonged illness. Before this, Oluyede served as the 56th commander of the Infantry Corps in Kaduna. With over three decades of experience, Oluyede was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 and rose to the rank of major general by September 2020. He and Lagbaja were coursemates in the 39th Regular Course.

During his address, Oluyede highlighted his extensive experience across various levels in the Nigerian Army. “My exposure to national security issues in junior, middle, and senior career levels has prepared me adequately for this assignment,” he said. Reflecting on his last five years at senior and management levels, he acknowledged both the achievements and challenges faced by the army. “I cannot completely distance myself from the successes and setbacks of our great army,” he added.

Oluyede described his nomination as a privilege, viewing it as an opportunity to drive reforms within the Nigerian Army and ensure its readiness to fulfill its constitutional duties.

Babajimi Benson, chairman of the Defence Committee, stressed the importance of integrity in leadership and the welfare of the troops. Following Oluyede’s address, the session proceeded to an executive meeting, where Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other senior military officers were present to lend support.