On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Rep. Wole Oke Congratulates Newly Appointed Service Chiefs, Urges Deepening of National Security Gains
The Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and Member representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State, Honourable Dr. Busayo Oluwole Oke, has congratulated the newly appointed Service Chiefs, describing their emergence as both a mark of confidence and a renewed call to patriotic duty.
Hon. Oke said the appointments come at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s security trajectory, as the nation consolidates gains recorded against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across various regions. He lauded the President’s decision, noting that the new appointees are “tested officers with proven records of diligence, discipline, and commitment to national unity.”
While felicitating the new Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Major-General W. Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral I. Abbas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke; and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General E.A.P. Undiendeye, the lawmaker expressed optimism that their collective experience and understanding of Nigeria’s security architecture will strengthen coordination among the Armed Forces.
“The new Service Chiefs are inheritors of a challenging but noble assignment,” Oke said. “Their wealth of experience, years of professional service, and distinguished performance in previous commands should now be deployed to build on the successes already achieved in safeguarding lives and property. The nation expects renewed vigour, collaboration, and transparency in tackling emerging threats to our internal and external security.”
Hon. Oke also commended the outgoing Service Chiefs for their patriotic service, emphasizing that national defence is a continuum in which every officer plays a vital role. He called on the new military leadership to adopt a people-centred approach that prioritises intelligence gathering, inter-agency synergy, and community trust as pillars for lasting peace.
The legislator further highlighted the importance of sustaining troop morale, improving welfare conditions, and motivating personnel for operational effectiveness. He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting defence policies and reforms that promote professionalism, accountability, and national stability.
“The Nigerian people desire and deserve a country where farmers can return to their fields, children can learn in peace, and citizens can move freely without fear,” Oke noted. “The new Service Chiefs must therefore bring all the experience they have gathered over the years to bear on consolidating the progress recorded so far in combating terror activities and other security challenges across our nation.”
He prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and protection for the new appointees as they assume their duties, urging Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through patriotism, vigilance, and faith in the nation’s unity.
“On behalf of the good people of Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I heartily congratulate our new Service Chiefs,” Oke concluded. “May your tenure bring greater peace, stability, and renewed hope to every corner of Nigeria.”
Signed:
Hon. Dr. Busayo Oluwole Oke
Chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs
Member, House of Representatives (Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Osun State)
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