President Tinubu-Urges Nigerian Army To Protect-Peaceful Citizens From Violent-Groups (Text)

President Tinubu-Urges Nigerian Army To Protect-Peaceful Citizens From Violent-Groups (Text)

President Bola Tinubu has tasked the Nigerian Army with ensuring that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of safety for all citizens in their homes and public spaces.

This directive was delivered by the President during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration held at the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Rukuba, Bassa LGA of Plateau State.

“The Nigerian Army remains one of the most patriotic and selfless elements of our nation. It embodies people who have volunteered, sacrificed, fought, and died so that the nation would live in peace. What can be more patriotic than to lay down one’s life for the sake of the nation?” President Tinubu stated.

He acknowledged the significant sacrifices made by the Nigerian Army to maintain national security, especially in the last decade and a half when security challenges increased.

Represented by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, President Tinubu highlighted the deployment of the Nigerian Army across all states, emphasizing their daily sacrifices to secure Nigeria. He paraphrased Winston Churchill, saying, “Never in the history of Nigeria, has so many owed so much to so few.”

The President reassured the army of his administration’s commitment to building a well-equipped and professional force, mentioning the approval of Group Life Assurance payments for soldiers who died in the line of duty. He also announced the purchase of attack helicopters and other necessary equipment to enhance combat efficiency.

“As the world changes, our security architecture must also change to meet new threats,” Tinubu stated. He insisted that Nigerians must feel safe in their fields, highways, markets, and homes. He urged the army to continue evolving strategies to prevent violent groups from overwhelming peaceful citizens while maintaining professionalism.

He encouraged collaboration with sister services, other security agencies, and the public, reiterating that the Nigerian Army is the backbone of the country’s security architecture. “Your charge now is not only to protect your country but to do what is right and just at all times,” he added.

Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, remarked on the Nigerian Army’s growth into a highly professional and potent force over the past 161 years. He affirmed the army’s commitment to President Tinubu’s directive to decisively address all security challenges facing the country.

“We will continue to conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects us as a committed and professional force,” Lagbaja concluded.