In a Presidential Security Briefing at the State House in Abuja on Friday, President Bola Tinubu called upon the nation’s security chiefs to ensure a definitive victory over the pervasive security threats gripping the country. Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale revealed this directive in a statement on Friday.
While acknowledging progress in eliminating certain security threats across various regions, President Tinubu stressed the importance of bringing the multi-dimensional menace to a conclusive end. He asserted that the success of ongoing efforts is crucial for making investments in infrastructure, social security, MSME empowerment, and other growth initiatives. The President highlighted the need to secure a $1 trillion economy in the coming years, emphasizing that continuous efforts against enemies of progress are imperative.
Addressing security chiefs and heads of intelligence agencies, President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the visible success of recent operations but condemned avoidable errors, citing a recent incident in Kaduna as unacceptable. He commended improved coordination among agencies but urged vigilance until a complete resolution is achieved. The President emphasized that the armed forces must meet the objective of sustaining the nation’s production of two million barrels of crude oil per day by the first quarter of 2024.
President Tinubu, asserting the gravity of the situation, warned against failure, stating, “Your task is clear. We will sustain our momentum. Failure is not an option under my leadership.” He called for heightened efforts by the Navy and sister branches to meet national aims and promised aggressive action against malign actors, both internal and external, working against the national agenda.
The President also took the opportunity to commend specific officers for their dedication and commitment. The Commander of the Presidential Air Fleet, Air Commodore Olayinka Olusola Oyesola, was promoted to Air Vice Marshal, while the Commander of the Brigade of Guards, Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, was elevated to the rank of Brigadier-General. President’s Chief Personal Security Officer, Usman Musa Shugaba, received a promotion to Deputy Commissioner of Police from the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police.
Impressed by their loyalty and dedication, President Tinubu recognized their exemplary service and expressed hope that Nigeria would continue to appreciate their contributions. The President personally decorated the newly promoted officers in the presence of other dignitaries, including Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, service chiefs, heads of intelligence agencies, and presidential aides also attended the event.