By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the newly appointed Service Chiefs to work in synergy, deploy technology, and confront the country’s security challenges decisively as he decorated them with new rank.
The ceremony took place inside the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with top government officials and lawmakers in attendance.
Those decorated include the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede (formerly Lieutenant General); Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Wahidi Shaibu (formerly Major General); Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (formerly Rear Admiral); and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke (formerly Air Vice Marshal).
The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiendeye, who was retained by the President, was also elevated from the rank of Major General.
In his remarks, President Tinubu urged the new military leadership to approach their assignments with patriotism, discipline, and innovation, stressing that Nigerians expect results, not excuses.
“Of grave concern to our administration is the emergence of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South,” he said.
“We must not allow these threats to fester. We must be decisive and proactive, smash the new snakes right in the head.”
The President encouraged the Service Chiefs to be innovative and pre-emptive, emphasizing the need to leverage technology in modern warfare and intelligence gathering.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer,” Tinubu declared.
“Let us stay ahead of those who threaten our peace. Nigerians are in a hurry to celebrate peace, and we must deliver that promise.”
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, General Olufemi Oluyede pledged unwavering loyalty to the President and commitment to restoring peace and security across the country.
He assured Nigerians that the military will intensify its campaign against terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminality to ensure safety, stability, and economic growth.
The wives of the newly decorated Service Chiefs joined their husbands during the ceremony.
Dignitaries present included Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Also in attendance were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.
President Tinubu appointed the new Service Chiefs earlier in October 2025, following a shake-up in the nation’s military hierarchy.
