New Service Chiefs Pledge To Rebuild Nigeria’s Security Framework

The newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, have pledged to overhaul the country’s security architecture to better confront emerging threats.

The two officers made the pledge during a screening session held by the House of Representatives’ joint committees on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Other nominees screened were Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke, nominated as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I Abbas, nominated as Chief of Naval Staff.

Lt. Gen Oluyede, noted that President Bola Tinubu’s recent shake-up of the military hierarchy offered a chance to “rejig the security architecture of our beloved country.”

He said his three-decade military career and previous tenure as Chief of Army Staff had prepared him for the task, adding that he would prioritize improving troop welfare and strengthening cooperation among the services.

“The security environment we find ourselves in today requires unity, collaboration, and strong bilateral and multilateral alliances.”

“I look forward to working with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to bring lasting peace to our country.”
Oluyede added.

Chief of Army Staff nominee Maj. Gen. Shuaibu also promised to inject “new vigor” into military training and operations, vowing to build on the legacy of his predecessor and ensure troops receive proper support and equipment.

“With this renewed focus, I believe we can create an environment where socio-economic activities can thrive, and Nigerians can move freely and safely,” Shuaibu said.

In his remarks Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Mr Babajimi Benson, said the screening exercise was a constitutional process to ensure accountability and professionalism in the Armed Forces.

“Our country faces evolving threats from terrorism and banditry to cyber and maritime insecurity.”

“Nigerians expect results, and this House shares that expectation.” Benson said.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji