The Nigerian Senate has begun the formal screening of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the recently appointed service chiefs, following their nomination by President Bola Tinubu. The exercise, which took place at the National Assembly in Abuja, is part of the constitutional process required before the officers assume their official duties.
Appearing before the Senate Committee on Defence, the nominees—comprising the heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force—outlined their visions for strengthening the country’s defence architecture. They presented strategies aimed at improving intelligence coordination, boosting troop morale, and enhancing operational efficiency across the armed forces.
Lawmakers questioned the military leaders on a range of security issues, including the fight against insurgency, banditry, and oil theft. The senators also emphasized the importance of transparency in military spending and urged the officers to adopt modern approaches to national security management.
The Senate President, in his remarks, said the screening demonstrates the legislature’s commitment to ensuring that only competent and accountable officers take command of Nigeria’s defence institutions. He added that Nigerians expect tangible improvements in security once the new chiefs assume office.
Once confirmed, the nominees will take full charge of their respective services and are expected to immediately begin implementing reforms aimed at tackling the nation’s complex security challenges.
