President Bola Tinubu on Thursday decorated the newly appointed service chiefs with their new ranks at a brief ceremony held inside the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The ceremony, which commenced shortly after 2:00 p.m., had Vice President Kashim Shettima and the spouses of the officers in attendance.
Those decorated include General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant-General Wahidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff; Air Marshal Kennedy Aneke, Chief of Air Staff; and Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff.
Addressing the officers, President Tinubu described their appointments as a call to duty at a critical time in the nation’s history, stressing that national security remains the backbone of Nigeria’s progress and stability.
“Today’s ceremony goes beyond the symbolism of decoration. It marks the beginning of our renewed effort to ensure the peace and security of all Nigerians,” he said.
The President acknowledged the military’s sacrifices over the years, particularly in reclaiming territories previously held by insurgents and rescuing kidnapped citizens. However, he warned that new forms of insecurity were emerging across the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South.
“We must not allow these new threats to fester. We must be decisive and proactive. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head,” he charged.
Tinubu directed the service chiefs to embrace innovation, intelligence-led operations and technology deployment, stressing that Nigerians expect visible results, not excuses.
“Security is an essential element without which everything else is rendered meaningless. Our people and our nation must remain secure to enjoy the benefits of governance,” he stated.
The President assured the military leadership of his unwavering support, pledging resources and cooperation necessary to execute their mandate effectively.
He concluded by wishing them success and praying for the safety of the Nigerian armed forces.
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