New Service Chiefs Pledge Renewed Commitment to Defeating Insecurity

By Chidinma Obiakor

The newly appointed Service Chiefs have pledged their commitment to tackling Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality across the country.

They gave the assurance on Wednesday during their screening by the House of Representatives Committees on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The Service Chiefs arrived at the National Assembly alongside the Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, and other senior military officials.

In his presentation, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, said his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu followed the President’s recent efforts to reposition the leadership of the Armed Forces.

“This is an opportunity to rejig the security architecture of our beloved country. I am grateful to Mr. President for the confidence reposed in me. Having served the Nigerian Army for over three decades and as the 24th Chief of Army Staff, I believe my experience has adequately prepared me for this assignment,” he stated.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede noted that his years of service at various operational and strategic levels have provided him with the insight and capacity to lead the Armed Forces effectively.

“If confirmed by this committee, I shall do my utmost best to justify the confidence of Mr. President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people,” he assured.

He emphasized that addressing the nation’s security challenges requires collective effort, robust inter-agency collaboration, and stronger partnerships with neighbouring countries.

“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is on the right path toward creating a secure environment for socio-economic growth. I look forward to working with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to restore peace and stability nationwide,” he added.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede also pledged to prioritize the welfare and well-being of military personnel and their families, stressing that improved motivation remains key to operational effectiveness.

On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral I. Abbas, assured lawmakers of his readiness to reposition the Navy for greater efficiency.

“Having served in various operational and instructional capacities, including as Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command and Director of Operations at Naval Headquarters, I have a firm grasp of what is required to move the Navy forward,” he said.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, urged the nominees to live up to national expectations.

“Our country faces evolving threats from terrorism and banditry to cyber and maritime insecurity. Nigerians expect results, and we share that expectation. This screening offers us the opportunity to hear your strategies for restoring peace and stability,” Benson said.

He assured that the committee would be fair, thorough, and objective in its assessment.

“Our goal is to ensure that only the most capable and visionary leaders are confirmed to serve at this critical time. We are partners in progress, united by a shared commitment to Nigeria’s security, peace, and prosperity,” he concluded.