Nigeria’s new service chiefs have officially been confirmed by the Senate — a move that marks the beginning of a new chapter for the nation’s armed forces. Among them is Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who wasted no time urging the Federal Government to empower the Nigeria Police Force with proper funding so the military can focus on its primary constitutional role of defending the nation from external threats.
Speaking passionately during his screening, General Oluyede stressed that internal security should not rest heavily on the shoulders of the armed forces. He noted that the police must be well-equipped to handle domestic challenges, while the military channels its strength toward combating terrorism and safeguarding national sovereignty. He also called for increased military funding and local production of weapons, warning that over-reliance on foreign imports “is not sustainable for a country with Nigeria’s security needs.”
The Senate confirmed four top officers — Lt. Gen. Oluyede (Chief of Defence Staff), Rear Admiral Idi Abbas (Chief of Naval Staff), Major-General Waidi Shuaibu (Chief of Army Staff), and Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke (Chief of Air Staff). During the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised General Oluyede’s track record, describing him as a “field general” who led from the front lines. “Since your leadership, Boko Haram flags no longer fly anywhere in Nigeria,” Akpabio said, commending his contribution to national security.
Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, the new Chief of Naval Staff, used his appearance to reject the proposed creation of a Nigerian Coast Guard, arguing that it would duplicate the Navy’s functions. Instead, he urged the government to channel such resources into strengthening the Navy’s operations. He revealed plans to deploy drone technology to combat oil theft and piracy, while emphasizing collaboration across services and communities under the Navy’s “Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy.”
General Waidi Shuaibu, the new Chief of Army Staff, vowed to crush the notorious Lakurawa sect that has terrorized northern states. Drawing from his experience in Borno during the height of the insurgency, he promised an aggressive and intelligence-driven approach. Similarly, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke pledged to lead a “disciplined and lethal” Air Force capable of keeping insurgents on the run. “A man running from you will not have the time to plan an attack,” he said, underscoring his focus on speed, precision, and innovation in air operations.
Collectively, the new service chiefs outlined a unified vision: better funding, smarter technology, and a more empowered police force to strengthen national security. Their confirmations have sparked renewed hope that with the right resources and coordination, Nigeria’s military might finally turn the tide in its long fight against insecurity.
