Reps approve Oluyede’s appointment as CoAS

The House of Representatives on Thursday approved the appointment of Lt Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS), as recommended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This followed the adoption of the recommendations of the House of Representatives Committees on Defence and Army, chaired by Hon. Babajimi Benson, during a plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

Oluyede had appeared before the committees on Wednesday after the President requested the National Assembly’s approval of his appointment.

It will be recalled that on October 30, Tinubu appointed Oluyede as acting COAS following the prolonged illness of Taoreed Lagbaja, the former army chief who passed away on November 5.

In a letter on Tuesday, Tinubu stated that Lt Gen. Oluyede has demonstrated commitment to the security and stability of the country and urged the National Assembly to confirm his appointment expeditiously.

Oluyede, accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, Chris Musa, and other top military officials, assured the lawmakers on Wednesday that the country would enjoy improved peace and security if his appointment was confirmed.

He also called for partnerships and cooperation with neighboring countries to address insecurity and enhance the safety of the region.