Tinubu warns new service chiefs: deliver results, not excuses. Orders decisive action to end terrorism and banditry across Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong directive to Nigeria’s newly decorated service chiefs, demanding swift and decisive action against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal threats facing the nation.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Thursday after decorating the top military officers with their new ranks, President Tinubu declared that Nigerians deserve results, not excuses.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. As leaders of our armed forces, you must act with patriotic zeal and deliver tangible results,” the President said.
“Be innovative, preemptive, and courageous. Let’s stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace and deploy technology where necessary.”
Tinubu: No Room for Failure
President Tinubu stressed that the era of complacency is over, charging the new commanders to dismantle all emerging criminal networks operating across the country.
“Security threats are evolving rapidly. Of grave concern is the rise of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South,” Tinubu warned.
“We must not allow these new threats to take root. Strike decisively and destroy these new snakes before they grow heads.”
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to providing full support to the armed forces, emphasizing that the protection of Nigerian lives and property remains his top national priority.
Top Dignitaries Attend Service Chiefs’ Decoration Ceremony
The event, held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and several governors including Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Abdulrahman Abdulrazak (Kwara), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).
Also in attendance were Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, SGF Senator George Akume, Head of Service Esther Didi Walson-Jack, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, among other high-profile officials.
President Commends Military Sacrifices
President Tinubu paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Nigerian military, noting that many soldiers have given their lives to defend the nation’s sovereignty.
“Our military has reclaimed territories once held by terrorists, rescued kidnapped citizens, and weakened the capacity of insurgents. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he said.
He urged the service chiefs to demonstrate teamwork and strengthen inter-agency cooperation to ensure seamless military operations.
“Work together as one family. Share intelligence, compare notes, and act decisively. The government will provide every resource you need to end insecurity once and for all.”
Military Chiefs Pledge Loyalty and Action
Responding on behalf of the service chiefs, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for his confidence in their leadership.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility. Without the support of Nigerians, we cannot succeed. We call on citizens across all regions to work with us in restoring peace and stability,” he said.
The newly decorated officers include:
General Olufemi Oluyede – Chief of Defence Staff
Lieutenant General Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye – Chief of Defence Intelligence
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu – Chief of Army Staff
Vice Admiral Idi Abbas – Chief of Naval Staff
Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke – Chief of Air Staff
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A symbolic highlight of the event came when the service chiefs, after saluting the President, turned and saluted their spouses earning applause from guests in attendance.