President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Armed Forces and security agencies to decisively confront terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist agitators threatening the nation’s unity and peace.
Delivering the President’s message at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held on Sunday at Murtala Square, Vice President Kashim Shettima declared that the military had the full backing of the Presidency to act without fear or hesitation.
“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 authorization 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,” Tinubu said.
The President described terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist movements as grave existential threats, warning that they must no longer be seen as minor disturbances.
“These evils do not discriminate — they destroy churches and mosques alike and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.
Tinubu pledged unwavering federal support for the military, promising sustained investments in modern weaponry, intelligence, and manpower to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty and security are protected.
“We are not oblivious of the challenges confronting 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 added.
Paying emotional tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, the President vowed that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also acknowledged the critical support provided by the families of servicemen and women, especially through the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and 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 added.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the evolution of the Nigerian Army since its founding in 1863, noting that while structures and technologies have changed, the essence of the Army remains constant.
He explained that the theme of this year’s NADCEL: “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,”placed troop welfare and professionalism at the heart of reforms.
“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier,” Oluyede said.
“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,” Oluyede said.
Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Army, in coordination with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, would continue to deny criminal groups any foothold in the country.
The grand ceremony featured military parades, tactical drills, and exhibitions of cutting-edge hardware, drawing cheers from dignitaries, traditional rulers, diplomats, and thousands of Kaduna residents.
Among the distinguished guests at the colourful event, included former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, former Army Chiefs Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya, service chiefs, federal lawmakers, and royal fathers.
