The Tinubu ADC promotion of Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf has sparked strong online reactions, as Nigerians debate the implications of the President’s decision. Many users have focused on the approval of a second elevation for the aide-de-camp.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the promotion through a letter dated December 12, 2025. The Office of the National Security Adviser, led by Nuhu Ribadu, sent the directive to the Chief of Army Staff. Specifically, the letter described the move as a special presidential promotion to the rank of brigadier-general. In addition, it stated that Yusuf would retain his role as ADC.
“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 12 December 2025 for your necessary action as enclosed. Please accept the assurances of my esteemed regards,” the letter read.
Tinubu ADC Promotion Raises Concerns
The ADC promotion has reportedly unsettled some Nigerian Army personnel. Notably, critics have pointed to the speed of Yusuf’s rise through the ranks.
In January 2025, Tinubu decorated Yusuf with the rank of colonel after a promotion in December 2024. Earlier, Yusuf assumed duty as the President’s ADC in April 2023 as a lieutenant colonel. As a result, the latest approval marks his second promotion within a short time.
Online Reactions Trail Tinubu ADC Promotion
Following the circulation of the letter, debates intensified on social media platform X. Meanwhile, users shared sharply divided opinions.
One user, @Orukusuku, defended the promotion, arguing that the President acted within his powers as Commander-in-Chief.
“As the C-in-C of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the President is acting within his powers if he has chosen to grant special promotion to his ADC,” the user wrote.
The user added that Yusuf’s earlier elevation followed routine procedure. However, the latest promotion carried a special designation.
“It is not normal to promote a military officer before his next promotion year hence the ‘special’ that was attached to the promotion,” the post stated.
Critics Warn of Precedent
Conversely, other users criticised the decision. A user identified as @Murtalaibin questioned the justification for the promotion, saying Yusuf had not shown exceptional service.
Another user, @Novieverest, suggested that the leak of the letter reflected internal dissatisfaction.
“For someone to leak that letter from the NSA to the Chief of Army Staff, it shows that the letter caused some problems within the Army,” the user said.
Similarly, @Boripe_ warned that retaining a brigadier-general as ADC could weaken military norms.
