President Bola Tinubu has approved a “special presidential promotion” for his aide-de-camp (ADC), Nurudeen Yusuf, elevating him from the rank of colonel to brigadier-general.
The approval was communicated in a letter from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) addressed to the Chief of Army Staff.
The letter, dated December 12, 2025, and signed by NSA Nuhu Ribadu, confirmed that Yusuf will continue to serve as the president’s ADC despite his new rank.
“I wish to convey Mr. President’s approval of the Special Presidential Promotion of Colonel Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf to the rank of Brigadier General and his retention as ADC C-in-C with effect from 12 December 2025 for your necessary action. Please accept the assurances of my esteemed regards,” the memo stated.
TheCable reports that the decision has stirred discontent within the Nigerian Army, with some officers criticizing the move as favoritism. Observers argue that the promotion bypassed established military protocols.
According to army regulations, an officer must meet specific criteria before advancing from colonel to brigadier-general. These include completing a war college or senior staff course, as well as a strategic course at the National Defence College or an equivalent institution. Additionally, a colonel is generally required to serve four to five years before becoming
eligible for such a promotion.
PROMOTED JUST 12 MONTHS AGO
In January 2025, Yusuf was decorated with the rank of colonel, following his promotion in December 2024. The ceremony was held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Yusuf was appointed as ADC to President Tinubu in April 2023, when he was still a lieutenant colonel, just a month before Tinubu’s inauguration.
In July 2024, Yusuf was also crowned as the monarch of Ilemona land in Oyun LGA, Kwara State, although he is expected to fully assume his traditional duties after retiring from military service.
As of now, the presidency has not responded to inquiries regarding the controversy surrounding Yusuf’s promotion to brigadier-general.
