President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, October 30, 2025, decorated the newly appointed service chiefs with a firm charge to decisively confront emerging security threats and consolidate gains already made in restoring peace across the country.
Speaking at the State House, Abuja, during the official decoration ceremony following the Senate’s confirmation of their appointments, the President urged the new military leadership to discharge their duties with “patriotic zeal, innovation, and courage.”
Tinubu told the chiefs that their appointment came with immense responsibility and high expectations, emphasizing that Nigerians want “results, not excuses.”
“Today’s ceremony is beyond the symbolism of decoration. It marks the beginning of our renewed effort to ensure the peace and security of all Nigerians,” he said. “Each of you has been carefully selected for this critical task. Security is the foundation upon which everything else rests—without it, development is meaningless.”
The President commended the armed forces for their sacrifices and bravery in reclaiming territories once held by terrorists and rescuing countless abducted citizens, describing their efforts as central to Nigeria’s survival and unity.
While acknowledging the progress recorded in counterterrorism operations, Tinubu warned that new and evolving threats, particularly the rise of armed groups in parts of the North-Central, North-West, and the South, pose fresh dangers that must be tackled decisively.
“We must not allow these new threats to fester,” he cautioned. “We must be decisive and proactive. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head.”
Tinubu urged the military hierarchy to stay ahead of criminal elements by embracing intelligence-led operations and advanced technology.
“I charge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let us deploy technology where necessary. We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer,” he said.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary support and resources to enable the military to achieve its mandate, assuring that the government would not relent until peace and stability are fully restored nationwide.
“I wish you success as you take up the challenge,” Tinubu concluded. “I promise to provide all the support you need to get the job done. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and may God continue to keep our armed forces safe.”
The newly decorated service chiefs expressed appreciation to the President for the confidence reposed in them and pledged renewed loyalty and commitment to the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
