President Bola Tinubu has officially decorated Nigeria’s newly appointed Service Chiefs with their new military ranks, urging them to act swiftly against rising security threats across the country.
The decoration ceremony took place on Thursday at the State House in Abuja, marking the formal assumption of their elevated roles.
Those decorated include General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, who now serves as the Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiendeye Undiendeye, the new Chief of Defence Intelligence; Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff; Air Marshal Kevin Aneke, the Chief of Air Staff; and Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the Chief of Naval Staff.
President Tinubu said the ceremony symbolized the beginning of a renewed push to secure Nigeria and restore public confidence in the nation’s armed forces.
“I congratulate you on your appointment and Senate confirmation,” Tinubu said. “As your Commander-in-Chief, I entrust you with a tremendous responsibility — one that demands absolute dedication and courage.”
He emphasized that security remained the foundation of all development efforts, adding that his administration would continue to prioritize the safety of lives and property.
“Security is essential,” Tinubu declared. “Without it, everything else becomes meaningless. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear or instability.”
The President praised the military for its sacrifices in reclaiming territories previously controlled by terrorists, acknowledging the bravery of soldiers who lost their lives in battle.
“Our military has remained steadfast in defending our territorial integrity,” he said.
“Many have paid the ultimate price so that our nation may stand tall.”
However, Tinubu warned of the emergence of new armed groups in parts of the North and South, stressing the need for immediate and decisive action.
“Security threats are constantly evolving,” he warned.
“We must not allow new dangers to grow. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head.”
He directed the Service Chiefs to embrace innovation and technology in combating insecurity and to deliver tangible results rather than excuses.
“I charge you to be proactive and courageous,” he said. “Deploy technology where necessary. Nigerians expect results — not stories.”
Tinubu also promised full government support to ensure the military’s operational success.
“I will provide every support needed to get the job done,” he said. “May God continue to protect our armed forces.”
Responding on behalf of the Service Chiefs, General Olufemi Oluyede pledged the military’s total loyalty to President Tinubu and its unwavering commitment to defending democracy and national unity.
“We assure Nigerians that we will do our utmost to rid this country of all forms of criminality,” Oluyede said. “A safe Nigeria is the key to economic recovery and national prosperity.”
He also urged citizens to continue supporting the Armed Forces as they intensify efforts to protect the nation.
“We will stand by Mr. President and uphold our democratic values,” he concluded. “Our pledge today is loyalty, discipline, and service to Nigeria.”
