Reps begin screening of service chiefs

The house of representatives is currently screening the service chiefs nominated by President Bola Tinubu.

The service chief nominees are; Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff; Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff; Emmanuel Ogalla, chief of naval staff; and Hassan Abubakar, chief of air staff.

The service chiefs are being screened by the principal officers of the house. Julius Ihonvbere, majority leader of the house, heads the screening committee.

Last week, Tinubu wrote to the national assembly, seeking confirmation of the security chiefs.

He based his request on section 18(1) of the armed forces act, CAP A20 laws of the federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Tinubu had said the review of the nation’s defence architecture necessitated the “appointment of new leaders to work in synergy with one another to achieve the level of optimal performance expected of the military”.

Appearing before the lawmakers on Monday, the nominees were given a few minutes to introduce themselves and make short remarks.

Addressing the legislators, Lagbaja said he will work in sync with other security chiefs to ensure that the country is secured.

He said he is mindful of the nation’s security challenges and will work to transform the army into a well-trained, proactive force.

“I shall do my best to justify the confidence reposed in me by the president,” he said.

The screening has now gone into an executive session.

The senate confirmed the appointment of the service chiefs on Thursday.