President Bola Tinubu has decorated the newly appointed service chiefs with their new ranks during a brief ceremony held in the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The new Chief of Defence Staff, formerly Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, received his new rank of General. The Chief of Army Staff, formerly Major General Wahidi Shaibu, was decorated as a Lieutenant General. The Chief of Naval Staff, formerly Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, received the rank of Vice Admiral, while the Chief of Air Staff, formerly Air Vice Marshal Kelvin Aneke, was decorated as an Air Marshal.
The Chief of Defence Intelligence, formerly Major General Emmanuel Undiendeye, who retained his position under the President, was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General.
Presidential Charge
President Tinubu urged the service chiefs to perform their duties with patriotism and commitment, emphasising that Nigerians are eager to experience peace and expect tangible results rather than excuses.
During the ceremony, the President advised them to adopt innovative and proactive strategies, collaborate effectively, and make use of modern technology to decisively defeat the nation’s enemies.
Speaking on behalf of the service chiefs, General Olufemi Oluyede pledged their collective resolve to tackle terrorism and criminality in order to safeguard Nigeria’s stability and promote economic progress. He also reaffirmed their loyalty to the President and commitment to democratic governance.
The wives of the newly promoted service chiefs assisted in the decoration ceremony.
Dignitaries present included Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Jubril Barau, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.
Appointments
President Tinubu appointed the new service chiefs in October 2025. Following their appointment, they met with him at the Presidential Villa before appearing before the Senate for confirmation.
The Senate screened and confirmed the nominees after a two-hour closed-door session during which senators questioned them on their strategies for improving national security and reforming the armed forces.
After the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio conducted a voice vote, and the upper chamber unanimously approved the confirmations. Akpabio commended the President for his choices, noting that the appointees possess the experience and credibility necessary to reposition Nigeria’s military.