Tinubu writes reps, seeks Oluyede’s confirmation as COAS

President Bola Tinubu has asked the house of representatives to confirm Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive chief of army staff (COAS).

Tinubu’s request is contained in a letter read by Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, during plenary on Tuesday.

Tinubu said Oluyede’s confirmation is in accordance with the provisions of section 218(2) of the 1999 constitution as amended and section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.

The president said the army chief’s contribution to the military and Nigeria makes him “well-suited” for the role.

He said Oluyede has been professional in his duties, adding that his confirmation should be done “expeditiously”.

On October 30, Tinubu appointed Oluyede as acting COAS following the prolonged illness of Taoreed Lagbaja, the former army chief.

On November 5, Lagbaja died of an undisclosed illness.

The president subsequently promoted Oluyede to the rank of lieutenant-general.

Before his appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th commander of the infantry corps of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna.

He was commissioned second lieutenant in 1992 and rose to the position of major general in September 2020.

Oluyede and Lagbaja were coursemates and members of the 39th regular course.

The president had also asked the senate to ratify Oluyede’s appointment.