Brigadier-General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), former Nigerian Army spokesperson, has commended President Bola Tinubu for shelving the proposed accelerated promotion of Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf, his Aide-De-Camp (ADC).
Usman expressed the view in a Facebook post on Tuesday, describing the reported decision as a demonstration of statesmanship, responsiveness and respect for military professionalism.
He said the president’s decision showed that leadership requires restraint and sound judgment rather than the mere exercise of power.
According to Usman, the proposed promotion had raised concerns within security and policy circles over fairness, due process and long-standing promotion procedures in the Nigerian army.
He said by allowing established systems to prevail, the president had reinforced confidence in merit, discipline and equity within the armed forces.
Usman added that the decision sent a reassuring message to officers and men that diligence, patience and adherence to defined career pathways remained the legitimate routes to advancement.
He also acknowledged Nigerians who publicly opposed the accelerated promotion, describing their actions as patriotic and motivated by a shared commitment to institutional integrity.
Usman commended Yusuf for maintaining calm and professionalism amid the public debate, saying such conduct reflected the discipline and honour expected of a senior officer.
He warned that presidential aides and advisers must offer counsel grounded in established rules and the national interest rather than political expediency.