Tinubu to New Service Chiefs: Crush Emerging Security Threats Without Excuses

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the newly appointed service chiefs to intensify their operations against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity, declaring that Nigerians demand tangible results, not excuses.

The President gave the charge on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during the decoration of the new service chiefs with their ranks.

Tinubu urged the officers to approach their assignments with courage, patriotism, and innovation, stressing the need for proactive measures to outsmart criminal elements.

“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. Nigerians expect results, not excuses,” the President said.
“I charge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let us stay ahead of those who threaten our peace. Where necessary, deploy technology and intelligence to achieve your objectives.”

Present at the ceremony were Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin; Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas; his deputy, Benjamin Kalu; and several other top government officials.

Also in attendance were Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).

The President expressed concern over the rise of new armed groups in parts of the North-Central, North-West, and South, warning that such threats must be decisively neutralized.

“Security threats are constantly evolving and mutating. Of grave concern is the emergence of new armed groups. We must not allow these threats to fester. Smash the new snakes right at the head,” Tinubu said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military, assuring the officers that the safety and security of Nigerians remain the government’s top priority.

“Our military has remained steadfast in defending our nation’s territorial integrity. Many have paid the supreme price, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the President added.
“We have reclaimed areas once held by terrorists and rescued countless citizens. You must now consolidate on these gains and ensure lasting peace across all regions.”

Tinubu also called for synergy among the services and other security agencies, urging them to work as a unified team.

“Work together, share intelligence, and follow up on every operation. I will give you all the support needed to get the job done. Nigeria must be safe again,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the newly decorated service chiefs, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede pledged their commitment to safeguarding the nation.

“We are grateful to the President for the confidence reposed in us. We promise to deliver on our mandate. Security is everyone’s business, and with public support, we will make Nigeria safer,” he assured.

The newly decorated officers are 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).

Their spouses and other dignitaries witnessed the ceremony at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa.