President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently approved a significant promotion. His Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Nurudeen Yusuf, is now a brigadier-general. This decision has stirred confusion. It also generated discontent within the Nigerian Army.
Presidential Approval Confirmed
A letter dated December 12, 2025, conveyed the President’s approval. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu signed it. It was addressed to Lt.-Gen. Wahid Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff. This letter officially confirmed Mr. Yusuf’s elevation.
This rapid promotion is notable. Mr. Yusuf was decorated as a colonel less than a year ago. This marks his second quick advancement within a 12-month period.
Concerns Emerge from Military Circles
The announcement surprised many military officers. Some described the promotion as unprecedented. This swift rise deviates from common practice.
Several of Mr. Yusuf’s colleagues and coursemates voiced frustration. They cited his accelerated career path. They argue it defies standard military norms and procedures.
“This beggars belief and defies all logic,” a senior officer stated anonymously to PREMIUM TIMES. “Someone who was just promoted to colonel this year?”
Presidency Explains Rank Harmonization
An anonymous Presidency source offered an explanation. The promotion aims to align Mr. Yusuf’s rank. It matches other senior security officials. These officers are attached to the Presidential Villa.
The source highlighted similar advancements. Other security agencies saw them too. This includes the Nigeria Police Force. The State Security Services (SSS) also had such promotions.
For instance, Usman Shugaba received a promotion in August. He is the President’s Chief Personal Security Officer. He rose from deputy commissioner to commissioner of police. Adegboyega Fasasi also advanced. He is the President’s Chief Security Officer in the SSS. He was elevated to the rank of director.
These positions are considered equivalent. They match a brigadier-general in the army. This statement came from the Presidency source.
ADC Yusuf’s Professional Background
Mr. Yusuf was appointed ADC to President Tinubu. This occurred on May 1, 2023. It was just weeks before the President’s inauguration.
At that time, he held the rank of lieutenant-colonel. His rise to brigadier-general has been notably fast. It happened in under three years. This pace is considered swift by military standards.
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