By Ibrahim Adamu, Kaduna
President Bola Tinubu has charged the Nigerian Army to confront and defeat insurgents, bandits and all other forms of insecurity undermining corporate existence of the nation.
President Tinubu emphasized the exigency to bring to an end the protracted menace of terrorism, insurgency, banditry and separatist agitation threatening the peace and unity of Nigeria.
The President gave the charge in Kaduna over the weekend at 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
In his speech as Special Guest Of Honour in a ceremony, marking 162 years of existence of the Nigerian Army, President Bola Tinubu said as the Commander in Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the soldiers had his full authorization, the trust and prayers of Nigerians to crush those seeking to undermine the nation in line with standard operating procedures and in accordance with international laws and principles.
Tinubu, represented by the Vice President of Nigeria Kashim Shettima assured men and women of the army of the Federal Government’s support for their welfare and operational equipment so they could effectively perform the task of protecting territorial integrity and securing lives and property of citizens.
“The time to rise and confront the monsters challenging our unity and corporate existence is now.
“You have my full authorization to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation. You have as well my confidence, support and prayers and I am certain you have the resolve and capabilities to deliver on this assigned task.
“The task of building and defending the nation is a collective effort of all citizens and not for soldiers only; We must therefore, not mortgage our future due to division.
“I must acknowledge the challenges you face in the cause of performing your duty.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment, intelligence and in human capacity that drive your effectiveness to discharge your regimental obligations as expected; it’s not a favour but a duty owed to those who defend us.
“The Nigerian Army has in 162 years remained the spine of our sovereignty. Since 1863 this respectable institution has shaped the course of our history and earned its place in the hearts of patriots.
“Nigerian Army has not only been a force of arm but has been a symbol of unity and duty which has fought battles to keep the territorial integrity of our nation.
“Our gallant men have carried out peacekeeping missions in Africa and across the globe and have stood not for power but for principle.
“Today we will honour the sacrifice of these men and women, many of whom have paid the supreme price defending our dear country.
“Those who continue to wear the uniform and defend the sanctity of our democracy from those wishing to tear it down, I assure you that your sacrifice shall never be in vain,” he assured.
Earlier, in his speech the Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff Lt.Gen. O.O. Oluyede reiterated his resolve of developing soldiers first in line with his transformative drive for the army through responsive leadership and effective administration of all Nigerian Army soldiers in carrying out their duties.
He noted that the 2025 celebration was coming at a time various troops of the Nigerian Army were engaged in several missions and operations against banditry, insurgency and separatist agitation across the country.
He expressed confidence in the capability of the army under his command to confront and deter any threat to the country.
He urged officers and soldiers to be bold, strong, committed and ingenious in the face of the present challenges confronting the nation.
The event was graced by the presence of former head of state General Yakubu Gowon.
Also in attendance were Minster of Defence Muhammad Badaru, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, Governor Uba Sani, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa among others.
Highpoints of the celebration were display of various corps of the Nigerian Army, combat march past, aerodrome demonstration among others.
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