Deborah Akinyosoye
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to take decisive action against terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist groups posing threats to the country’s peace and unity.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square in Kaduna on Sunday, Tinubu issued a firm order for immediate action.
“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 are my confidence, my support, and my prayers,” the President said.
He warned that the threats confronting the country had grown beyond isolated acts of violence, calling them existential in nature.
“These evils do not discriminate. They destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to equipping the armed forces with the necessary resources. He promised continued investment in weapons systems, intelligence capabilities, and personnel development to maintain national sovereignty.
“We are not oblivious of 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,” Tinubu said.
He also paid tribute to fallen and wounded soldiers, acknowledging their role in defending the country’s integrity.
“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.
The President extended his appreciation to the families of soldiers and to associations such as the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for their continued support.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, traced the Nigerian Army’s history to its establishment in 1863, noting its evolution in structure and technology. He emphasised that the strength of the Army still lies in its personnel.
“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier,” Oluyede said.
He explained that the 2025 NADCEL theme, Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive, prioritises the welfare and training of troops as central to the Army’s reform agenda.
“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 added.
Oluyede reassured the public of ongoing collaboration with other security agencies, stating that such joint efforts have consistently disrupted attempts by criminal groups to gain control over any part of Nigeria.
The celebration included tactical displays, exhibitions of military equipment, and parades. The event was attended by former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, other service chiefs, former Army chiefs, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.