The Senate on Tuesday confirmed the appointments of the service chiefs after over four hours of rigorous screening behind closed doors.

The closed-session which started at about 11:25am, ended around 3:45pm.

The officers who answered various questions from the senators are Major General Abayomi Olonishakin, Chief of Defence Staff; Major General Tukur Buratai, Chief of Army Staff; and Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, Chief of Naval Staff.

Others are Air Vice-Marshal Sadique Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff; Air Vice-Marshal Monday Morgan, Chief of Defence Intelligence, and retired Major General Babagana Monguno, National Security Adviser.

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who presided over the session, explained after the screening that issues of insurgency, oil theft and procurement process of military equipment and hardware were throughly addressed.

The senators unanimously gave a resounding approval through voice votes when Saraki put the question of whether the senate would confirm or reject the appointments after the screening.

Saraki after the approval said, “It is clear that the appointment is based on merit. Their appointment as we all see is coming at a very crucial time with a lot of challenges, particularly the insurgents in the North-East and some of the other security issues.

“For example, the issue of oil theft that we talked about when they came before us. We hope that during their period of time, they will take up the responsibility required. We are all keen to restore the image and reputation of the Armed Forces.

“I believe that what we are starting today with their confirmation is the beginning of that journey to restore the glory of the Armed Forces of our great country.”