Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval For Oluyede As Chief Of Army Staff

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate’s confirmation of Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS). 

The request was conveyed in a letter to the Senate, in line with the provisions of Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.  

Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, confirmed the development, noting that Tinubu is confident in Oluyede’s ability to lead the Nigerian Army effectively. 

“President Tinubu is confident about the leadership qualities, professional integrity, and experience of Oluyede for the leadership of the army,” Onanuga said.  

Oluyede was appointed as acting COAS on October 30 following the prolonged illness of the late Taoreed Lagbaja, the former Army Chief. Tragically, Lagbaja passed away on November 5 due to an undisclosed illness.  

The late General Lagbaja and Oluyede shared a professional bond, both being members of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy.  

Oluyede, who was recently promoted to the rank of lieutenant-general, brings extensive experience to his role. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 and rose to the rank of major general by September 2020.  

Prior to his current appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna. 

His career has seen him lead critical military operations, including the ECOMOG mission in Liberia, under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Operation Harmony IV in Bakassi and Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East theatre of operations, combating insurgency.  

He also commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade, further cementing his reputation as a seasoned military leader.  

The Senate is expected to deliberate on Tinubu’s nomination in the coming days.

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