By ERICJAMES OCHIGBO

The newly appointed Service Chiefs have pledged their commitment to secure the territorial integrity of Nigeria and

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 (CDS) designate, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said that 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.

Oluyede said that his years of service at various operational and strategic levels, provided him with 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.

“If confirmed by this committee, I shall do my utmost best to justify the confidence of Mr. President, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people.

“The Tinubu’s 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 added,” 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.

On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff designate, Rear Admiral 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 Naval Headquarters, he had a firm grasp of what was required.

The Chief of Army Staff designate, Maj.-Gen. 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 enable environment for social activities to thrive in the country.

The Chief of Air Staff designate, AVM Kelvin Aneke, said that he was ready to protect Nigeria with the instruments of Air Force.

He said that he had acquired requisite expertise and experience and was ready to guide the force for swift response and decisive strikes.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos) urged the nominees to live up to national expectations.

He said that Nigeria is faced with evolving threats from terrorism and banditry to cyber and maritime insecurity.

According to him, Nigerians expect results, and we share that expectation and this screening offers us the opportunity to hear your strategies for restoring peace and stability.

He assured the service chiefs designate that the committee would be fair, thorough, and objective in its assessment.

“Our goal is to ensure that only the most capable and visionary leaders are confirmed to serve at this critical time. We are partners in progress, united by a shared commitment to Nigeria’s security, peace, and prosperity,” he concluded. (NAN)

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