The Senate on Wednesday confirmed General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, marking the start of the screening of recently appointed service chiefs at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

Oluyede’s confirmation came less than an hour after he and other nominees arrived at the complex amid tight security.

The swift confirmation signalled the Senate’s readiness to strengthen leadership within the armed forces at a critical time for national security.

Welcoming the nominees, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the screening as a constitutional duty to ensure that only the most competent and patriotic officers are entrusted with safeguarding the nation.

“On behalf of the entire Senate, I congratulate you on your well-deserved appointments and commend you for your years of dedicated service to our great nation,” Akpabio said.

He added that the exercise reflected the Senate’s oversight responsibility to uphold discipline, professionalism, and accountability in the military.

Akpabio emphasised that the interaction would help fortify Nigeria’s defence architecture and promote confidence in the nation’s security institutions.

“The Senate remains committed to ensuring that only disciplined and patriotic officers lead our armed forces in protecting our territorial integrity,” he stated.

The nominees are being screened by the Committee of the Whole, chaired by Akpabio, before formal confirmation.

 

Editing by Oluwaseyi Ajibade