By Sodiq Adelakun
Nigeria’s security strategy is set for a significant reset following the confirmation of the new Service Chiefs by the Senate on Wednesday.
The newly confirmed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Waidi Shaibu, delivered pledges of renewed discipline, national coordination, and homegrown defense innovation during their separate Senate screening sessions.
The Senate, which urged stronger national defense coordination, commended both officers for their candor and strategic depth before confirming their appointments.
General Oluyede, reflecting on his challenging tenure as the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, stated that the nation’s war against insecurity demands total unity and effective information management.
“My tenure has been quite challenging, and while things have improved tremendously, we can do better. It requires a whole-of-society approach. It’s important for all hands to be on deck to make Nigeria safer,” the Defence Chief said.
He strongly emphasized that the country’s fight against insecurity would remain tough if misinformation and propaganda were not properly addressed.
Oluyede warned directly, “If we fail to manage information effectively, our challenges will persist.”
The CDS also called for greater investment in homegrown defense technology to reduce reliance on external partners, stressing that Nigeria must build its own capacity to confront emerging threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and disinformation.
He added that while resources remain limited, Nigeria must invest in developing its own capacity to counter these emerging challenges.
On his part, Major General Waidi Shaibu, the new Chief of Army Staff, vowed that the Nigerian Army would deal decisively with the newly emerging terrorist group, Lakurawa, which is responsible for recent attacks in the northern region.
“The Army will deal decisively with the new bandit group known as Lakurawa,” he declared, echoing the CDS by stating that security requires a “whole-of-society approach.”
He pledged effective management of available resources, acknowledging that security is not cheap.
Recalling his field operations, the Army Chief highlighted his key roles in securing victories against Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State, noting that a significant number of terrorists surrendered during his tenure.
He emphasized his commitment to leveraging technology, saying, “We leveraged technology to improve operations, and for the past five years, I have been deeply involved in missions that led to the decimation of many terrorist elements.”
General Shaibu pledged that troop welfare, equipment, and career development would remain top priorities under his leadership.
Alongside the two confirmed officers, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke was confirmed as the Chief of Air Staff and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as the Chief of Naval Staff. Major General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence, according to a statement issued by Presidential Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.
