Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Nigeria’s newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff, has described his time as Chief of Army Staff as one of the most challenging periods of his military career.

Oluyede, made this statement on Wednesday during his Senate screening.

He reflected on the hurdles faced while leading the Nigerian Army and the lessons drawn from that experience.

“My tenure was quite challenging. Though we made significant progress in securing the country, there is still room for improvement.

“Security is not a task for the military alone — it requires the cooperation of every Nigerian,” he disclosed.

He outlined that his former role demanded total commitment and long hours of planning to address complex threats confronting the nation, Channels reports.

“It took a great deal of experience, sleepless nights, and unwavering focus to safeguard our nation. While resources remain limited, Nigeria must invest in developing its own capacity to counter emerging challenges, from terrorism to cybercrime,” Oluyede said.

The military chief also emphasized the need for effective information management and homegrown defence solutions, cautioning that failure to control misinformation could worsen security problems.

However, the Senate commended his responses and permitted him to take a bow and exit the chamber.

Oluyede is among the newly appointed service chiefs by President Bola Tinubu.

Others include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S. K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff.

The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, retains his position, according to a statement released last Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.

Oluyede served as the 24th Chief of Army Staff before his elevation to the role of Chief of Defence Staff.