Tinubu to Service Chiefs: Nigerians Expect Results, Not Excuses

Tinubu to Service Chiefs: Nigerians Expect Results, Not Excuses

By Ade Ade

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern charge to the newly appointed service chiefs, insisting that the time has come to decisively end terrorism, banditry, and emerging security threats across the country.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga,
in a statement explained that the President delivered the message on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, shortly after decorating the commanders with their new ranks.

“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer,” Tinubu said. “Nigerians expect results, not excuses. I urge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let’s stay ahead of those who threaten our peace and deploy technology where necessary.”

The ceremony, held at the Council Chambers, was witnessed by Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin; Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu; as well as several federal lawmakers, ministers, and senior government officials. Also in attendance were Governors Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).

Tinubu expressed concern over the rise of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South, warning that the government would not allow fresh security threats to take root.

“Security threats are constantly evolving. We must be decisive and proactive,” he said. “Let us smash the new snakes right at the head.”

The President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the armed forces, praising the sacrifices of military personnel and their families. He noted that government efforts had restored peace to areas once besieged by violent groups and significantly reduced the capacity of terrorists.

“There were times when terrorists and armed marauders held significant portions of our land; this is no longer the case,” Tinubu said.

He urged the service chiefs to strengthen synergy among all security agencies, share intelligence, and provide exemplary leadership.

“Work together as a team. Compare notes, exchange information effectively, and ensure a seamless process. We must defeat this enemy once and for all,” he said.

Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, thanked the President for the confidence reposed in them and appealed for public support.

“Without the support of Nigerians, we can hardly achieve anything,” Oluyede noted. “We promise to make Nigeria a safer place.”

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).

The ceremony drew applause when the service chiefs, after saluting the Commander-in-Chief, turned to salute their spouses present at the event.