The newly appointed service chiefs have pledged their commitment to securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The appointees who gave the assurance on Wednesday before the House of Representatives’ military joint committee pledged to tackle insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality across the country.
In his presentation, the chief of defence staff, Olufemi Oluyede, said that the nomination of the new service chiefs was part of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to reposition the leadership of the armed forces.
He said that addressing the nation’s security challenges required collective effort, robust inter-agency collaboration, and stronger partnerships with neighbouring countries.
Mr Oluyede said that his years of service at various operational and strategic levels had given him the insight and capacity to lead the Armed Forces effectively.
“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.
“I shall do my utmost best to justify the confidence of Mr President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people. The Tinubu administration 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 stated.
The general pledged to prioritise the welfare and well-being of military personnel and their families, stressing that improved motivation remains key to operational effectiveness.
The chief of naval staff, Idi Abbas, assured lawmakers of his readiness to reposition the navy for greater efficiency. He said that, having served in various operational and instructional capacities, including as flag officer Commanding Central Naval Command and director of Operations at the navy headquarters, he had a firm grasp of what was required.
The chief of army staff, Waidi Shaibu, said that he had acquired relevant expertise and experience that had prepared him for the new role. He expressed willingness to lead the army from the front and to contribute to ongoing efforts to create an enabling environment for social activities to thrive in the country.
The chief of air staff, Kelvin Aneke, said he was ready to protect Nigeria with the instruments of the Air Force. He said he had acquired the requisite expertise and experience and was ready to guide the force toward swift responses and decisive strikes.
(NAN)
