President Bola Tinubu directed the newly decorated service chiefs to neutralize armed groups. He made this known on Thursday at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.
He said, “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.
“Each of you has been carefully selected for this critical task. Security is an essential element without which everything else is rendered meaningless. Our people and our nation must remain secure to enjoy the benefits of governance.”
The president noted that the military has reclaimed territories once controlled by terrorists and has rescued countless kidnapped victims.
He said, “However, challenges remain. Security threats are constantly evolving and mutating. Of grave concern is the recent emergence of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South.
“We must not allow these threats to fester. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head. Nigerians expect results, not excuses. We are in a hurry to celebrate peace.
“Our military has remained steadfast in defending our territorial integrity. In dark times, when terrorists and armed marauders held significant portions of our land, our gallant armed forces rose to the challenge and reclaimed those occupied territories.
“I sincerely appreciate your sacrifices as your Commander-in-Chief. I have repeatedly acknowledged them, and I will continue to do so.
“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. I charge you, as the heads of our nation’s armed forces, to carry out your duties with patriotic zeal.
“Nigerians expect results, not excuses. I also urge you to be innovative, preemptive, and courageous. Let’s stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace. Let us deploy technology where necessary.”
Those decorated were General Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant-General Wahidi Shaibu as the Chief of Army Staff; Air Marshal Kennedy Aneke as the Chief of Air Staff; and Vice Admiral Idi Abbas as the Chief of Naval Staff.