President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a stern charge to the newly appointed service chiefs, declaring that the era of excuses is over and that Nigerians now expect decisive victories against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening the nation’s peace.
Speaking on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, shortly after decorating the service chiefs with their new ranks, President Tinubu urged the military leadership to intensify operations and innovate in the fight against insecurity.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer,” the President declared. “Nigerians expect results, not excuses. I charge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let’s stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace. Let us deploy technology where necessary.”
The ceremony, held at the Council Chambers, was attended by an array of top government officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and several governors, ministers, and military dignitaries.
Tinubu expressed concern over the rise of new armed groups in parts of the country, warning the military not to allow such threats to gain ground.
“Security threats are constantly evolving and mutating. Of grave concern is the emergence of new armed groups in 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 at the head,” he said.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fully support the armed forces, promising adequate resources and coordination to ensure victory.
He commended the military for its sacrifices and successes so far, noting that the country has reclaimed territories once held by terrorists.
“Over the years, our military has remained steadfast in defending our territorial integrity, with many soldiers paying the supreme price. Their sacrifices will not be in vain. We have restored peace to many areas, rescued countless citizens, and diminished the capacity of terror groups,” he stated.
Tinubu also emphasized teamwork among the security agencies, urging the service chiefs to “compare notes, exchange information effectively, and follow up proactively” to eliminate threats.
Responding on behalf of the service chiefs, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for his confidence in them and vowed to deliver on the mandate.
“Security is our business, but without the support of Nigerians, we can hardly achieve anything,” General Oluyede said. “We urge citizens of all backgrounds to support us. Together, we will make Nigeria safer — that’s our promise to you.”
Those decorated 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), and Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke (Chief of Air Staff).
In a lighthearted moment that drew applause, the service chiefs, after saluting the Commander-in-Chief, turned to salute their spouses, who accompanied them to the ceremony.
