My tenure as Army Chief very challenging- Oluyede
The newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has described his time as Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) as “very challenging,” highlighting the immense demands of military leadership in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
Speaking on Wednesday during his screening by the Senate, Oluyede said that although notable progress had been made in strengthening national security, there was still significant work ahead.
“My tenure has been quite challenging, and while things have improved tremendously, we can do better,” he stated. “It requires a whole-of-society approach. All hands must be on deck to make Nigeria safer.”
Reflecting on his service, Oluyede spoke about the sacrifices required to lead the military effectively, citing sleepless nights, limited resources, and the need for total dedication to national safety.
“It required cognate experience and unwavering commitment. Nigeria must develop its own capacity to confront emerging threats — from terrorism to cybercrime. If we fail to manage information effectively, our challenges will persist,” he said.
He emphasized the need to strengthen local defense production and promote homegrown solutions to security problems.
After his presentation, senators expressed satisfaction with his responses and permitted him to take a bow and leave, though he remained briefly in the chamber afterward.
Oluyede is among the newly appointed service chiefs named by President Bola Tinubu. Others include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S. K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff.
Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence, according to a statement issued last Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.
Born in 1968, Lieutenant General Oluyede previously served as the 24th Chief of Army Staff before his elevation to Chief of Defence Staff.
