New Service Chiefs
Nigeria’s newly appointed Service Chiefs have reaffirmed their commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and restoring peace across the country.
The top military officers made the pledge on Wednesday during their screening before the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force, where they outlined strategies to combat insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity.
In his presentation, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) designate, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said their nomination by President Bola Tinubu reflected the administration’s determination to strengthen the leadership of the Armed Forces and reposition Nigeria’s security system.
> “This is an opportunity to rejig the security architecture of our beloved country. I am grateful to Mr. President for the confidence reposed in me,” Oluyede said.
He noted that tackling the country’s diverse security challenges would require collective effort, robust inter-agency collaboration, and stronger partnerships with neighbouring nations.
> “Having served the Nigerian Army for over three decades and as the 24th Chief of Army Staff, I believe my experience has adequately prepared me for this assignment.
If confirmed by this committee, I shall do my utmost best to justify the confidence of Mr. President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people,”
he stated.
The CDS-designate pledged to prioritise the welfare and well-being of military personnel and their families, adding that improved motivation was key to boosting operational performance.
On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff designate, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, promised to reposition the Nigerian Navy for greater efficiency and enhanced maritime security.
He explained that his years of service in both operational and instructional capacities — including his tenure as Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command and Director of Operations at Naval Headquarters — had equipped him with the necessary experience to lead effectively.
Similarly, the Chief of Army Staff designate, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, expressed confidence in his readiness for the task ahead.
> “I have acquired relevant expertise and experience that have prepared me for this new role. I am ready to lead from the front and contribute to efforts aimed at creating a safe environment for socio-economic activities to thrive,”
Shaibu assured.
Also speaking, the Chief of Air Staff designate, AVM Kelvin Aneke, pledged to deploy the full capabilities of the Air Force to protect Nigeria’s airspace and support ground operations.
> “I have acquired the requisite expertise and experience and I am ready to guide the Force for swift response and decisive strikes,”
Aneke stated.
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC–Lagos), urged the nominees to live up to national expectations, stressing that the country was facing evolving threats — from terrorism and banditry to cyber and maritime insecurity.
> “Nigerians expect results, and we share that expectation. This screening offers us the opportunity to hear your strategies for restoring peace and stability,”
Benson said.
He assured the nominees of a fair and objective assessment process.
> “Our goal is to ensure that only the most capable and visionary leaders are confirmed to serve at this critical time. We are partners in progress, united by a shared commitment to Nigeria’s security, peace, and prosperity,”
he added.
NAN
