President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday decorated the new Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ola Ibrahim; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Alex Badeh, with a marching order to deal decisively with terrorism and oil theft.
Jonathan, who decorated the new military chiefs with the assistance of Vice-President Namadi Sambo at the Council Chambers of State House, Abuja, said they must put an end to both vices.
The President said, “These fine officers and gentlemen are taking up command at a time when our nation is faced with serious challenges.
“Given their inspiring antecedence, however, and working in synergy with other security services, I am confident that they will bring fresh impetus into the new security architecture to combat the menace of terrorism in all its ramifications across the length and breadth of Nigeria.
“May I further reiterate that the security of life and property in all parts of this country is a sacred obligation which our administration will do everything in its power to live up to. We cannot allow threats to national security to compromise our national transformation efforts,” the President said.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, was not decorated as he retained his position as the Chief of Army Staff.
