President Bola Tinubu has reportedly called off plans to grant a rapid promotion to his Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf, following interventions from senior retired military officers, including two former Chiefs of Army Staff.
The proposed elevation, which would have promoted Yusuf to brigadier-general barely a year after his December 2024 promotion to colonel, was reportedly scheduled for a low-key ceremony on Monday evening.
The plan, however, was shelved at the last minute amid concerns over its potential impact on military discipline, seniority, and morale.
Promotion to brigadier-general in the Nigerian Army is highly competitive. Officers are typically required to serve a minimum of four years as colonel, complete senior military courses at institutions such as the National Defence College (NDC) or NIPSS, Kuru, and pass rigorous boards that evaluate command experience, service record, and available vacancies. A fast-tracked promotion at this level is considered highly irregular.
A leaked letter dated December 12, 2025, from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), signed by Nuhu Ribadu, indicated that Yusuf would continue to serve as the President’s ADC regardless of the proposed promotion.
The episode highlights the fine line between presidential authority and adherence to established military protocols.
ADCs occupy a unique position in Nigeria’s civil-military structure. While they are close to the Commander-in-Chief, their roles are largely protective and administrative rather than command-oriented. Accelerating their promotion to general officer rank can therefore be especially contentious.
Although presidential or exceptional promotions have occurred in Nigeria’s military history, usually in recognition of gallantry or urgent national security needs, experts warn that elevating an ADC to brigadier-general can disrupt established seniority hierarchies and affect the morale of officers who have advanced through the standard promotion process.
About the Author
