The House of Representatives has commenced the screening of Oluyede Oluyede, the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

Oluyede is currently addressing the House of Representatives Committee on Defence and Army.

This follows President Bola Tinubu’s letter to the House on Tuesday, requesting the confirmation of Oluyede as the substantive COAS. Oluyede was appointed acting COAS on October 30, after the prolonged illness of Taoreed Lagbaja, the former army chief.

Before his appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 and rose to the rank of major general in September 2020. Oluyede and Lagbaja were coursemates in the 39th Regular Course.

During his address, Oluyede emphasized his extensive experience, having served in the Nigerian Army for over 30 years.

“My exposure to national security issues in junior, middle, and senior career levels has prepared me adequately for this assignment,” he said. “In the past five years, I have served at the senior and management level in the Nigerian Army and have been involved in the operations of the service. I cannot completely distance myself from the successes and setbacks of our great army.”

He described his nomination as a privilege, viewing it as an opportunity to drive positive changes within the Nigerian Army to enable it to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.

Babajimi Benson, chairman of the Defence Committee, stated that the COAS must lead with integrity and prioritize the welfare of the troops.

Following Oluyede’s address, the lawmakers proceeded to an executive session. Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and other senior military officers accompanied Oluyede during the screening.