President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong directive to Nigeria’s newly appointed service chiefs, urging them to intensify efforts to eradicate terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity across the country.
The President made the call on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during the decoration ceremony of the service chiefs with their new ranks.
Addressing the officers, President Tinubu emphasized that Nigerians expect tangible results, not excuses, in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer,” he said.
““I charge you, as the heads of our nation’s armed forces, to carry out your duties with patriotic zeal. Nigerians expect results, not excuses.
“Be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let us stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace. Deploy technology where necessary.”
The President warned against the resurgence of armed groups in parts of the country, directing the military to act decisively against new security threats.
“Security threats are constantly evolving and mutating,” Tinubu said.
“We must not allow new threats to fester. Be decisive and proactive. Smash the new snakes right at the head.”
The event, held at the Council Chambers, was attended by top government officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and several state governors.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing full support for the armed forces, assuring them that national security remains a top priority.
“Over the years, our military has remained steadfast in defending our nation’s territorial integrity, with many soldiers paying the supreme price for their service. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” he stated.
“We have restored peace to many areas previously under siege, rescued countless kidnapped citizens, and significantly diminished the capacity of terror groups.”
The President also called for synergy among the security agencies, urging the service chiefs to work as a team to ensure effective coordination.
“I advise you to work together as a team. Compare notes, exchange information effectively, and follow up proactively.
“Work with other security agencies and defeat this enemy once and for all,” he said.
“I promise to provide all the support you need to get the job done.”
Responding on behalf of the newly decorated officers, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in them.
He assured Nigerians that the military remains determined to restore peace and stability across the country.
“Security should be our business, but without the support of Nigerians, we can hardly achieve anything,” Oluyede said.
“We urge all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, to support us. We will make Nigeria a safer place — that’s our promise.”
The newly decorated service chiefs 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).
The ceremony ended on a light note as the decorated officers drew applause from the audience after saluting President Tinubu and then turning to salute their spouses in appreciation of their support.
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