President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially requested the House of Representatives to confirm Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The president’s request was outlined in a letter read by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during the House’s plenary session in Abuja on Tuesday. In the letter, President Tinubu emphasized that the confirmation complies with Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.
Highlighting Oluyede’s qualifications, Tinubu praised the general’s significant contributions to the Nigerian military. The president described him as “well-suited” for the position due to his professionalism and dedication to service. Tinubu urged lawmakers to confirm Oluyede’s appointment without delay to ensure continuity in military leadership.
Oluyede has been serving as the acting Chief of Army Staff since October 30, following the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the former army chief, after a prolonged illness.
Before assuming this role, Oluyede had an impressive career within the Nigerian Army. He previously served as the 56th commander of the infantry corps in Kaduna. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992, he rose steadily through the ranks, achieving the position of major general in September 2020.
