Tinubu decorates ADC with new rank, says he’ll achieve greatness in military

President Bola Tinubu has decorated Nurudeen Yusuf, his aide-de-camp (ADC), with his new rank of colonel.

The president decorated Yusuf on Thursday at the State House, Abuja.

Yusuf was appointed Tinubu’s ADC in April 2023 before his inauguration on May 29.

In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, said the president described his ADC as a “reliable officer, deserving of elevation in rank”.

The presidential spokesperson quoted Tinubu as saying that he envisions the ADC achieving greatness in his military career.

Onanuga said Yusuf, formerly a lieutenant colonel, was promoted to the rank of colonel by Nigerian Army promulgation AHQ MS/G1/300/252/2 on December 19, 2024, noting that the rank’s seniority became effective on September 22, 2023.

“You all know Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf. He carries a lot of responsibilities. I am joyous that the military authorities have promoted my ADC,” the statement reads.

“He is worthy of the promotion, and I am very happy for him. Nurudeen is a diligent and reliable officer with the right temperament. I believe he will go farther and farther in his profession.

“We are with you. We love and really care about you. We will continue to do so. Character defines man, and it has defined you. With your promotion, you are highly respected. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you. We thank God for you.

“May God bless our armed forces and keep them safe.”

The presidential spokesperson added that Tinubu commended the ADC’s wife for “keeping the home front steady, calm, and reliable” during his service.

Yusuf expressed gratitude to the president for trusting him as his ADC and reaffirmed his loyalty.

“I stand here today filled with immense gratitude and humility as I reflect on this remarkable occasion of my decoration with the rank of Colonel in the Nigerian Army,” he said.

“This moment is a personal milestone and a testament to the enduring values of the unwavering support of those around me.

“First and foremost, I thank the Almighty Allah for His grace, guidance, and blessings upon my career and life. Without Him, this day would not have been possible.

“To His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply honoured by the privilege to be granted promotion to this enviable rank.

“I wish to use this unique opportunity to restate that your leadership and trust have been a source of inspiration, and serving as your Aide-de-Camp has been a profound privilege and the highest honour of my career.

“Thank you for your confidence in me and for being here to share in this special moment.”

In attendance were AbdulRazaq AbdulRahmon, governor of Kwara; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA); Kayode Egbetokun, inspector general of police (IGP); Christopher Musa, chief of defense staff (CDS); and Bello Matawalle, minister for state defense.

Others include Kudirat Yusuf, the ADC’s mother; Ganiyat Yusuf, his wife; and Abiodun Yusuf, his daughter.