President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Army to promote his aide-de-camp, Colonel Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, to the rank of brigadier-general.
A confidential letter from National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, addressed to the Chief of Army Staff, confirmed the president’s approval of the special promotion, effective December 12, 2025. The letter states:
“I wish to convey Mr President’s approval of special presidential promotion of Colonel Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf to the rank of brigadier-general and retention as ADC C-in-C with effect from 12 December 2025 for your necessary action as enclosed.”
This unprecedented presidential directive bypasses the Nigerian Army’s standard promotion procedures, which typically depend on years of service, completion of requisite professional courses, and training.
Observers note that this exceptional advancement of Mr Yusuf may spark discontent among other officers and personnel within the Nigerian Army and the broader Nigerian Armed Forces, given the deviation from established promotion protocols.
The development raises questions about the implications of such special promotions on military discipline and morale.
