CDS Oluyede sends strong message to security agencies, politicians over insecurity 

The newly confirmed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has warned that Nigeria’s fight against insecurity will remain difficult if the country fails to manage information effectively.

Oluyede gave the warning on Wednesday during his screening at the Senate, where he spoke about the nation’s security challenges and his experience as Chief of Army Staff.

Reflecting on his tenure, the CDS admitted that though progress had been made in tackling insecurity, more work remained to be done.

“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,” he said.

He stressed that effective information management was vital to defeating emerging threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and disinformation campaigns.

“If we fail to manage information effectively, our challenges will persist,” Oluyede warned.

The Defence Chief highlighted the need to strengthen Nigeria’s defense capacity and invest in homegrown solutions rather than relying solely on external support.

“We all know resources are limited, but Nigeria must build its own capacity to confront emerging security threats,” he added.

Following his presentation, the Senate expressed satisfaction with his responses and confirmed him as the new Chief of Defence Staff.

General Oluyede is among the newly appointed service chiefs recently named by President Bola Tinubu. Others include Major General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff.

Major General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence.