President Bola Tinubu has charged the newly appointed service chiefs to be innovative and courageous in tackling terrorism and emerging security threats across the country.
President Tinubu gave the charge on Thursday while decorating the new service chiefs at the State House, Abuja.
He urged them to approach their assignments with patriotism and dedication.
He said the ceremony signified a renewed commitment to ensuring peace and security for all Nigerians.
“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.
The president acknowledged the sacrifices of the armed forces in defending the nation’s territorial integrity, noting that many officers had paid the ultimate price in service to the country.
“In dark times, when terrorists and armed marauders held significant portions of our land, our armed forces rose to the challenge and reclaimed those occupied territories,” Tinubu said.
He commended the military for restoring peace to previously troubled areas and rescuing kidnapped citizens, saying their efforts had weakened terror groups.
Tinubu, however, cautioned that security threats were evolving, with new armed groups emerging in parts of the North-Central, North-West and South.
“We must not allow these new threats to fester. We must be decisive and proactive. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head,” he said.
The president urged the service chiefs to leverage technology and fresh strategies to stay ahead of those who threaten national peace and stability.
“I charge you to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Nigerians expect results, not excuses,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the armed forces with the resources needed to effectively execute their mandate.
“I wish you success as you take up the challenge. I promise to provide all the support you need to get the job done,” he added.
The president also prayed for the continued safety of the nation’s armed forces and peace across the country.
Responding on behalf of the service chiefs, the chief of defence staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, assured of proper synergy in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
“I want to assure Mr President and all Nigerians today that we’ll do our utmost best to rid Nigeria of all forms of criminality and make the country safer to ensure socio-economic endeavours can thrive,” he said.
Other service chiefs in attendance were the chief of army staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, chief of naval staff Vice Adm. Idi Abbas and Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
The ceremony was witnessed by the spouses of the service chiefs, who took the oath of allegiance and office before the president.
