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By Tracy Moses
The newly appointed Service Chiefs have pledged to reform and strengthen the country’s security architecture, prioritize the welfare of troops, and deepen collaboration with the National Assembly and other key institutions to guarantee lasting peace and stability nationwide.
Appearing before a joint session of the House of Representatives Committees on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force for screening, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed optimism about his readiness to lead the Armed Forces at what he described as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history.
“My years of active engagement in national security management and extensive exposure to high-level military operations have adequately prepared me for this crucial responsibility,” Oluyede told lawmakers.
Tracing his professional background, the CDS said his experience serving in both the Indian and Nigerian Armies had equipped him with a broad perspective on operational strategy and defence management.
“I have served at senior operational and administrative levels in both the Indian and Nigerian Armies. This dual exposure has provided me with valuable insights necessary to effectively coordinate our national defence systems,” he stated.
Describing himself as “a commissioner of the first rank,” Oluyede vowed to revamp the military economy and improve recruitment and conscription models to enhance the strength and efficiency of the Armed Forces.
He further pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people, emphasizing the need for synergy among all security actors and increased international cooperation to tackle emerging threats.
“Our security reality today demands collective resolve from all Nigerians and stronger regional and global partnerships,” he asserted.
Oluyede also reaffirmed his commitment to making personnel welfare a central pillar of his leadership.
“I am determined to enhance the welfare and overall well-being of our service personnel and their families. Working with the National Assembly and relevant agencies, we will ensure that adequate funding and resources are provided for effective operations,” he said.
In his presentation, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Waidi Shuaibu, promised to inject fresh energy into the Nigerian Army through advanced training for special forces and the modernization of operational tactics.
“With over three decades of military service, during which I have undergone diverse professional and strategic courses, I am fully prepared for this responsibility,” he stated.
Shuaibu holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, as well as three Master’s degrees in Public Administration, Strategic Studies, and Security Studies from the National Defence University, Washington D.C. He also possesses a Diploma in International Security and Counterterrorism.
Recalling his achievements in active service, the Army Chief highlighted his role in the rescue of 15 Chibok girls and the neutralization of several high-profile terrorist leaders.
“I plan to consolidate on these gains by improving special forces training to enhance the Army’s precision and rapid-response capability. My leadership will also strengthen welfare initiatives to keep our troops motivated and focused,” he said.
On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Idi Abas, reviewed his military career and reaffirmed his readiness to reposition the Nigerian Navy for optimal performance.
“I have served in various command and instructional capacities, including as Sector Commander in Operation Safe Haven, Commander of Naval Operations, Fleet Officer Commanding the Central Naval Command, and Director of Operations at the Naval Headquarters,” he said.
“With these experiences and exposures, I am confident in my ability to drive greater productivity and operational efficiency in the Navy,” Abas assured.
Similarly, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke, underscored the role of leadership, innovation, and strategic planning in shaping a more capable and disciplined Air Force.
“My leadership approach will focus on strengthening command structures, promoting innovation, and advancing strategic planning to make our Air Force more agile, professional, and future-ready,” Aneke declared.
Declaring the screening open earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence described the exercise as an important constitutional function of the legislature, aimed at ensuring competence, transparency, and accountability in top military appointments.
“The National Assembly, in accordance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), has the responsibility to confirm key executive appointments such as those of the Service Chiefs. This process is not ceremonial but an essential step to safeguard public confidence and institutional credibility,” the Chairman noted.
He reminded the nominees that Nigerians expect tangible improvements in the country’s security outlook, urging them to present clear strategies and measurable plans to restore peace across the nation.
“Our country continues to face evolving security challenges, from terrorism and banditry to cyber and maritime threats. This session provides a vital opportunity to assess your readiness and vision for addressing these issues,” he stated.
He further assured the Service Chiefs of the Committee’s fairness and diligence throughout the screening, emphasizing their shared goal of rebuilding citizens’ confidence in the Armed Forces.
“We are committed to ensuring that only the most capable and visionary leaders are confirmed. Together, our mission is to secure Nigeria, protect her people, and restore public faith in our military institutions,” the Chairman concluded.