The House of Representatives has hailed the appointment of new service chiefs as a chance to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s security system.
Lawmakers said the screening promotes transparency, accountability, and competence.
The House of Representatives joint committees on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force have described the appointment of new service chiefs as a crucial opportunity to rebuild public trust in Nigeria’s security system and promote accountability within the Armed Forces.
Led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, the lawmakers made this known in Abuja during the screening of the nominees recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Those screened included Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas; and Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
Benson explained that the screening process was an important constitutional duty meant to ensure transparency, professionalism, and competence at the highest level of military leadership. He said the exercise would allow lawmakers to assess the readiness of the nominees to confront Nigeria’s security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and maritime insecurity.
“This process is not merely a formality; it is a vital step in ensuring that those who lead our Armed Forces are capable, focused, and ready to deliver results,” Benson stated. He emphasized that Nigerians expect renewed confidence in the military’s ability to protect lives and maintain peace across the nation.
In their presentations, the nominees pledged to strengthen the Armed Forces through reforms that would enhance operational performance and inter-agency cooperation.
Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff nominee, assured lawmakers of his commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and fostering stronger collaboration with the National Assembly.
Major General Waidi Shuaibu, nominated as Chief of Army Staff, promised to build on existing achievements, boost training, morale, and operational discipline among troops.
The session ended with a collective pledge from the nominees to work together in restoring peace, unity, and professionalism in Nigeria’s security system, aligning with President Tinubu’s broader goal of securing the nation and rebuilding citizens’ confidence in the military.
