Reps panel screens Yahaya as chief of army staff

The house of representatives joint committee on defence and army on Tuesday  screened Farouk Yahaya, the newly appointed chief of army staff (COAS).

Last Tuesday, Femi Gbajabiamila, speaker of the house, read a letter from President Muhammadu Buhari seeking the confirmation of Yahaya as COAS.

Babajimi Benson, chairman of the committee on defence, said at the screening that the exercise is coming at a time when the country is battling various security challenges.

He said the army chief must ensure that he does everything possible to bring the insecurity to an end.

Yahaya, a major general, was appointed on May 27 to replace Ibrahim Attahiru who died in a military plane crash alongside 10 other officers.

He told the lawmakers that he has the credential and experience to lead the army if he confirmed as its chief of staff.

“I believe that I have the requisite requirement by the grace of God to now provide my services in this office of the chief of army staff if so confirmed,” he said.

“What I brought is the certificate of experience and commitment I have had all across my career. Through out my career, I have been appointed as at when due. I am determined to provide my best having known what is required to achieve result.”

Yahaya also said he will work with other security agencies to ensure that the insecurity in the country is put to rest.

Thereafter, the joint committee went into a closed session.