The Senate, on Wednesday, confirmed the newly appointed service chiefs, following President Bola Tinubu’s nominations last weekend. During the confirmation, the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, called on the Federal Government to adequately fund the Nigeria Police Force to enable it to take over internal security operations, allowing the military to focus on its constitutional duties.
Oluyede also urged improved funding for the Armed Forces to effectively combat terrorism and advocated for local production of military equipment, warning that reliance on imports was unsustainable.
The new CDS, who previously served as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), made these remarks during his screening by the Senate. He emphasised that insecurity had reduced significantly under his tenure as Army Chief, though challenges remained due to limited resources.
“I believe the police need restructuring and strengthening. Many of the internal security duties currently handled by the military rightly belong to the police,” he said. “Empowering the police will enable the Army to focus on external defence and counter-terrorism operations.”
Oluyede stressed the need for a collective approach to security, saying, “The fight against insecurity requires a whole-of-society approach. Security should not be left solely to the Armed Forces.”
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, praised Oluyede’s service record, noting that his appointment as Chief of Army Staff was celebrated nationwide for his reputation as a field commander who led from the front. “You have reduced attacks to isolated incidents and prevented countless threats. We are proud of you,” Akpabio said.
Meanwhile, the new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, rejected the proposal to establish a Nigerian Coast Guard, warning that it would duplicate the functions of the Navy. He argued that funds intended for the Coast Guard should instead strengthen naval operations.
“Creating another agency would duplicate efforts. It’s better to channel those funds toward boosting naval operations,” Abbas said. He highlighted ongoing efforts to combat oil theft through technology, including drones, and emphasised cooperation with other security agencies and communities.
On the reintegration of repentant insurgents, Abbas advocated for a humane, community-driven process that includes consulting families of victims to promote healing and acceptance.
The Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Waidi Shaibu, vowed to confront the Lakurawa sect terrorising parts of northern Nigeria, pledging decisive military action.
Similarly, Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, promised to lead a disciplined and formidable Air Force capable of keeping insurgents “on the run.”
“I use the word lethal in a professional sense because a man running from you will not have time to plan to hurt you,” Aneke said, noting that his vision would focus on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation.
The Senate confirmed Lt. Gen. Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke as Chief of Air Staff.
