…tells Nigerian Army “You have my full authorisation to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.
The iNews Times reports that president Bola Tinubu has given the Nigerian Army and other security agencies a clear marching order to confront and defeat terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatists threatening the nation’s peace and unity without fear or hesitation.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square, Kaduna, on Sunday, July 6, 2025, Tinubu declared, “To the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorisation and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation. You have my confidence, my support, and my prayers.”
The president emphasized that terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations are no longer mere irritants but grave existential threats that require a united, calm, and uncompromising response. “These evils do not discriminate-they destroy churches and mosques alike and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he warned.
He assured the military of his administration’s unwavering support, pledging to prioritize their welfare, morale, and operational strength. “We are not oblivious to the challenges that confront our nation. But let it be said plainly: our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. I assure you that this administration stands firmly with you on that path,” he said.
Tinubu paid tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices would never be in vain. “Many of our finest have fallen in the line of duty. Some now lie in silence beneath the soil of a grateful nation, others carry the wounds of oath as living reminders of sacrifices made in our name. Their blood will not be shed in vain; their memory will endure through generations,” he said.
He also commended the families of serving and fallen soldiers, particularly praising the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for sustaining morale on the home front.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria and long live our Armed Forces,” he concluded, drawing thunderous applause from the parade ground.
Earlier, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the Nigerian Army’s long history of resilience since 1863, noting that its greatest asset remains the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier.
“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier,” Oluyede said.
The COAS explained that the theme of this year’s NADCEL, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” was designed to prioritize troop welfare and professionalism.
“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers. Their willpower, morale, and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security,” he stressed.
The event featured military parades, tactical drills, and an exhibition of advanced hardware, with prominent guests including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa.
