President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Army to grant a special promotion to his aide-de-camp (ADC), Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf, advancing him from the rank of colonel to brigadier-general.

In a confidential letter addressed to the Chief of Army Staff and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the President’s approval for the promotion was conveyed. The letter, seen by Peoples Gazette, stated: “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 December 12, 2025, for your necessary action as enclosed.”

This promotion, which comes less than a year after Yusuf was decorated as a colonel in January 2025, has raised concerns within the military. Sources indicate that several officers, including some of Yusuf’s coursemates, have expressed frustration over what they consider an accelerated career progression. Critics have accused the President of favouritism, with one senior officer describing the promotion as “unprecedented” and “illogical.”

One anonymous officer voiced their disbelief to PREMIUM TIMES: “Someone who was just promoted to colonel this year?”

Despite these concerns, neither the Presidency nor the Nigerian Army has provided a public explanation for the swift promotion. However, a source within the Presidency, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the promotion was intended to align Yusuf’s rank with that of other senior security officials at the Presidential Villa.

The source further clarified that similar promotions had recently taken place within other security agencies. In August 2025, the Nigeria Police Force promoted the President’s Chief Personal Security Officer, Usman Shugaba, from deputy commissioner to commissioner of police. Additionally, the State Security Services (SSS) elevated the President’s Chief Security Officer, Adegboyega Fasasi, to the rank of director.

According to the source, ranks in the Nigeria Police Force and SSS are considered equivalent to the rank of brigadier-general in the Nigerian Army.

The development has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the appropriateness of such a promotion within a short span of time. Public opinion remains divided on whether President Tinubu has the right to influence the career trajectory of his personal aides in this manner.

Related Topics:

President Tinubu

Nigerian Army

ADC Nurudeen Yusuf

Share Your Thoughts: Do you believe President Tinubu is justified in directing the promotion of his aide-de-camp to brigadier-general? Share your comments below.