Disquiet as Tinubu approves ‘special promotion’ for his ADC — barely a year after elevation to colonel

President Bola Tinubu has approved the “special presidential promotion” of his aide-de-camp (ADC), Nurudeen Yusuf, from the rank of colonel to brigadier-general.

The approval was conveyed in a letter from the office of the national security adviser (NSA) to the chief of army staff.

The leaked letter was dated December 12, 2025, and was signed by Nuhu Ribadu, the NSA.

In the letter, Ribadu said Yusuf will be retained as the president’s ADC despite the promotion.

“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 memo reads.

TheCable understands that the development is causing a ruckus in the Nigerian Army as several personnel are said to be displeased over the “favouritism”.

The “special presidential promotion” was said to have violated the principles of promotion in the armed forces.

Per army rules, Yusuf is to meet some requirements before being promoted from colonel to brigadier-general, which include the completion of a war college or a senior staff course, and completion of a strategic course at the National Defence College or its equivalent.

A colonel in the Nigerian Army is also expected to spend a duration of four to five years before becoming eligible for promotion.

PROMOTED BARELY 12 MONTHS AGO

In January 2025, Tinubu decorated Yusuf with the rank of colonel after he was promoted in December 2024.

The decoration ceremony took place at the presidential villa, Abuja.

In April 2023, Yusuf, who was then a lieutenant colonel, was appointed as the ADC to Tinubu — barely a month before the inauguration of Tinubu as president.

Yusuf was crowned as the monarch of Ilemona land in Oyun LGA of Kwara state in July 2024.

However, he is expected to fully assume the traditional role when he retires from the military.

The presidency is yet to respond to TheCable’s enquiry about the brewing controversy over the approval of Yusuf’s promotion to brigadier-general.