President Bola Tinubu on Thursday charged the newly appointed service chiefs to tackle the persistent security crisis that has plagued Nigeria since 2009. During their decoration ceremony at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the critical responsibility entrusted to them, demanding patriotic zeal, commitment, and dedication, and stressing that Nigerians expect tangible results, not excuses.

The President highlighted that the ceremony marked a renewed national effort to ensure peace and security for all citizens, asserting that security is a fundamental prerequisite for development. He acknowledged the military's unwavering steadfastness in defending the nation's territorial integrity, noting the ultimate sacrifices made by many soldiers. Tinubu commended the armed forces for reclaiming significant portions of land from terrorists and armed marauders, restoring peace to previously besieged areas, rescuing countless kidnapped citizens, and significantly diminishing the capacity of terror groups.

Despite these past achievements, President Tinubu cautioned that security threats are constantly evolving and mutating. He expressed grave concern over the recent emergence of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South. He issued a stern directive, stating, "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 reiterated that the crisis that began in 2009 cannot be allowed to persist any longer.

Tinubu further charged the service chiefs to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous, urging them to leverage technology where necessary to stay ahead of those who threaten national peace and stability. He also advised them to work together as a cohesive team, compare notes, exchange information effectively, and follow up proactively to ensure a seamless process. The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to providing all necessary support and resources for the armed forces to effectively execute their mandate, emphasizing that the safety and security of Nigerians remain paramount for national development.

Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, thanked President Tinubu for their appointments and assured him and all Nigerians of the armed forces' unwavering commitment. He pledged to do their utmost best to rid Nigeria of all forms of criminality, make the country safer, and ensure socio-economic endeavors can thrive. General Oluyede also reaffirmed the military's absolute loyalty to President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, pledging support for the flourishing democracy and all government aspirations to improve Nigeria. He further called on all Nigerians to support the military in their campaign to safeguard the nation's territorial integrity and protect lives and property.

The decorated service chiefs included Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye. The ceremony was witnessed by notable dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, several state governors, ministers, and other high-ranking government officials, along with the spouses of the service chiefs.