Tinubu decorates newly appointed Service Chiefs with fresh ranks

President Bola Tinubu has decorated the newly appointed service chiefs with their new ranks at a brief ceremony held in the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The new Chief of Defence Staff, formerly Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, was decorated with the rank of General, while the new Chief of Army Staff, formerly Major General Wahidi Shaibu, was decorated as Lieutenant General.

The Chief of Naval Staff, formerly Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, was decorated as Vice Admiral, and the Chief of Air Staff, formerly Air Vice Marshal Kelvin Aneke, was decorated with the rank of Air Marshal.

The Chief of Defence Intelligence, formerly Major General Emmanuel Undiendeye, who was retained by the President, was also promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General.

President Tinubu charged the service chiefs to perform their duties with patriotism and commitment, noting that Nigerians are eager to experience lasting peace and expect results, not excuses.

He urged them to be innovative, proactive, and courageous in carrying out their responsibilities.

The President further encouraged them to work together as a team, leverage technology where necessary, and ensure the total defeat of the nation’s enemies.

Speaking on behalf of the service chiefs, General Olufemi Oluyede pledged their collective commitment to fighting terrorism and criminality to ensure Nigeria’s safety and promote economic development.

He also reaffirmed their loyalty to President Tinubu and support for democratic governance.

The wives of the newly promoted officers assisted in decorating their husbands during the ceremony.

Present at the event were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.

The new service chiefs were appointed by President Tinubu in October 2025.

Following their appointment, they held a meeting with the President before being screened and confirmed by the Senate.

Their confirmation came after a two-hour closed-door session where senators questioned them on strategies to enhance national security and reform the armed forces.

After the screening, Senate President Godswill Akpabio put their confirmation to a voice vote, which was unanimously approved by the chamber.

He later commended the President for his selection, stating that the nominees possess the competence and credibility to reposition Nigeria’s military.

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