Tinubu writes senate, seek confirmation of Lt. Gen. Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.

The request was conveyed in a letter submitted on Friday, as announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The confirmation is sought under Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede has been serving as Acting Chief of Army Staff since October 30, following the illness and subsequent passing of his predecessor, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on November 5.

In the letter, President Tinubu highlighted Oluyede’s leadership capabilities, professional integrity, and extensive military experience, emphasizing his potential to strengthen the Nigerian Army and enhance national security.

A Distinguished Military Career

Oluyede, commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992, is a member of the Nigerian Army’s 39th Regular Course. Before his current role, he was the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps in Jaji, Kaduna. He rose to the rank of Major-General in September 2020 and has served in various operational and leadership roles throughout his career.

Some of his key positions include:

Platoon Commander and Adjutant at 65 Battalion

Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion

Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade

Commandant of the Amphibious Training School

Oluyede has participated in numerous military operations, including:

The ECOMOG mission in Liberia

Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi

Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, where he led the 27 Task Force Brigade

Awards and Recognition

Oluyede has earned several commendations, including the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, Field Command Medal, Field Command Medal of Honour, Field Training Medal, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.

He is married with three children, bringing a balance of dedication to his profession and family life.

The Senate’s decision on his confirmation will mark a critical step in shaping the leadership of Nigeria’s Army under the Tinubu administration.