Tinubu seeks senate confirmation for Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff

President Bola Tinubu has officially requested the Senate’s confirmation of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.

The request, outlined in a letter sent to the Senate, was announced on Friday by Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

The President’s move aligns with Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, which require legislative approval for such appointments.

Oluyede was appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30, 2024, following the illness of his predecessor, the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. Tragically, General Lagbaja passed away on November 5.

The confirmation process in the Senate is expected to formalize Oluyede’s leadership of the Nigerian Army, ensuring continuity and stability within the military hierarchy during a crucial time for national security.

Before his appointment, Oluyede, a member of the 39th Regular Course, like his predecessor, served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna.

He became Major-General in September 2020. Since his commissioning as an officer, Oluyede has held many command positions.

Onanuga said “President Tinubu is confident about the leadership qualities, professional integrity, and experience of Lt. General Oluyede to lead and inspire the army to ensure national security and stability.”