President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday decorated his Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, with his new rank of colonel during a ceremony held at the State House in Abuja.
Yusuf, who was appointed as Tinubu’s ADC in April 2023 before the president’s inauguration on May 29, was promoted from lieutenant colonel to colonel following the Nigerian Army’s promulgation AHQ MS/G1/300/252/2 on December 19, 2024, with seniority backdated to September 22, 2023.
In his remarks, President Tinubu described Yusuf as a “reliable and diligent officer” who deserved the elevation in rank, expressing confidence in his ADC’s potential for even greater accomplishments in his military career.
“You all know Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf. He carries a lot of responsibilities. I am joyous that the military authorities have promoted my ADC,” Tinubu said.
“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.
“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 president added.
Tinubu also praised the ADC’s wife, Ganiyat Yusuf, for her unwavering support and for “keeping the home front steady, calm, and reliable” during her husband’s service.
Yusuf, visibly moved by the occasion, expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the role of ADC and supporting his career advancement.
“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,” Yusuf said.
“This moment is a personal milestone and a testament to the enduring values of the unwavering support of those around me.
“To His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply honoured by the privilege to be granted promotion to this enviable rank. 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.”
