Reps confirm Faruk Yahaya as chief of army chief

The house of representatives has confirmed Faruk Yahaya as the chief of army staff (COAS).

The lower legislative chamber confirmed him after a report was presented by Babajimi Benson, chairman of the committee on defence.

The senate had last Tuesday confirmed Yahaya as COAS.

While presenting the report, Benson had said Yahaya met all the requirements expected of him.

He said the army chief “appropriately” answered all the questions posed to him by the panel during the screening.

The committee screened Yahaya two weeks ago, after Femi Gbajabiamila, speaker of the house, read a letter from President Muhammadu Buhari seeking his confirmation.

During his screening, Yahaya said he participated in war and peacekeeping operation in Liberia, adding that with his experience, he can ensure improved security in the country.

The lawmakers unanimously voted for the confirmation of Yahaya on Tuesday after Idris Wase, deputy speaker of the house, put his nomination to a voice vote.

Yahaya, a major general, was appointed on May 27 to replace Ibrahim Attahiru who died in a military plane crash alongside 10 other officers.