President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong directive to the newly appointed service chiefs, charging them to end terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity bedevilling the country, insisting that Nigerians will no longer accept excuses for failure.
Speaking on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after decorating the service chiefs with their new ranks, President Tinubu said the time had come to bring a decisive end to the lingering insecurity that has plagued parts of Nigeria since 2009.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. Nigerians expect results, not excuses,” the President declared. “I charge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Stay ahead of those who threaten our peace and deploy technology where necessary.”
The decoration ceremony, held at the Council Chambers, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and several governors, ministers, and top government officials.
Among the dignitaries present were Governors Abdulrahman Abdulrazak (Kwara), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun). Also in attendance were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; and Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris.
President Tinubu expressed concern over the resurgence of new armed groups in parts of the country, particularly in the North-Central, North-West, and the South, warning the military to act swiftly and decisively.
“Security threats are constantly evolving. 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 threats to fester. Smash the new snakes right at the head,” he warned.
While assuring the armed forces of the government’s full support, President Tinubu reaffirmed that national security remains the foundation of development and stability.
He commended the military for their sacrifices, acknowledging that many soldiers had paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
“There were times when terrorists and marauders held significant portions of our land; that is no longer the case. We have restored peace to many areas, rescued kidnapped citizens, and degraded the capacity of terror groups,” he said.
The President also stressed the importance of synergy among the services, urging the military leadership to work closely with other security agencies.
“Work together as a team, exchange information effectively, and ensure seamless coordination. Defeat this enemy once and for all. Clean them up, clear them out. I will provide all the support you need to get the job done,” Tinubu assured.
Responding on behalf of the newly decorated officers, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for the confidence reposed in them, pledging total commitment to securing the nation.
“Without the support of Nigerians, we can hardly achieve our mission. I encourage citizens of all ethnicities to stand with us. Ultimately, we will make Nigeria a safer place,” General Oluyede said.
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).
In a light-hearted moment, the service chiefs, after saluting the President, turned to salute their spouses, drawing applause from the audience.
By PRNigeria
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