The House of Representatives at the National Assembly (NASS) has commenced the screening of the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, Major General Faruk Yahaya.
The Joint House Committee on Army and Defence carried out the screening exercise on behalf of the House of Representatives. In his opening remarks, the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, expresses concern about worsening insecurity in the country.
He urged the nominee to adopt innovative measures to curb wanton killings and destruction of property if confirmed. Babajimi Benson said Nigeria deserves a rejuvenated, robust and motivated Armed Forces.
The Minister of Defence, represented by the Permanent Secretary, described the nominee as an astute professional and a superior officer who had served the nation in different capacities.
He applauded the partnership between the Ministry and the Parliament, especially in the quest for peace in the nation.
The nominee, Faruk Yahaya, reeled out his professional exploits in his 36 years sojourn in the Nigerian Army, especially in counter terrorism and assured the lawmakers he was ready to take the battle to those terrorising the country.
The Army Chief said he has a good relationship with the heads of the other branches of the military, including DSS and the Police.
Babajimi Benson, the Chairman of the Committee on Defence moved for the session to be held behind closed door.
Gen Yahaya was accompanied to the screening by the Special Adviser to the President on House of Representatives, Umar El-yakub and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence.
Yahaya’s appointment was announced one week after the demise of the immediate past COAS, Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and 10 others in a plane crash in Kaduna.
Until his appointment, Yahaya was the Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, responsible for counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
When his appointment is confirmed, Yahaya is expected to be elevated to the rank of Lieutenant General, leaving the Chief of Defence Staff, General Leo Irabor, as the most senior in the Armed Forces. PRNIGERIA
