July 06, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s commitment to building a well-equipped and truly professional army that will remain the nation’s pride.
The President made the commitment on Saturday, during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024, held at the Headquarters 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau State.
Represented at the event by Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of Defence, President Tinubu commended the army’s patriotism and selflessness, saying his government is committed to providing the Army with all that it needs to enable them to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities.
He acknowledged their critical roles in maintaining Nigeria’s security, development, and existence, and pledged his administration’s commitment to equipping and professionalising the army.
The President announced approval for Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and the purchase of attack helicopters and combat equipment to enhance their efficiency.
He expressed pride in the army’s capabilities, evident in the parade and display, and encouraged continuous evolution to meet emerging security challenges.
Tinubu emphasised the importance of public safety and urged the army to sustain progress, evolve strategies, and conduct themselves professionally.
He encouraged collaboration with sister services, security agencies, and citizens, acknowledging the army’s pride and historical significance.
President Tinubu highlighted the army’s sacrifices and dedication to protecting the nation, reinforcing its reputation as a symbol of national pride.
“I feel proud as your Commander-In-Chief as I watch the array of equipment and your dexterity in handling them. I see the eagerness and pride on the faces of the young men and women as they showed their commitment to defend the country.
“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world.
“I am told that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brainstorming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges.
”As the world changes, our security architecture must also change to meet up with the new threats. Here is my bottom line: Nigerians must be safe in their fields, on our highways, in our markets and in their homes.
“The Nigerian Army remains the backbone of the security architecture that would ensure this security. You must sustain the progress made so far and evolve strategies to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding Nigerians.
“As you take direct action against violent groups, you must remember to conduct yourselves in a manner to reflect your professionalism”, he said.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, in his welcome address, emphasised the army’s commitment to its mission statement, operational effectiveness, and welfare and administration of troops.
He acknowledged the support of the President, National Assembly, Defence Headquarters, sister services, and security agencies and appealed for understanding from Nigerians living in areas of active combat operations.
Lagbaja, who commended the army’s commitment to its mission statement, operational effectiveness, and welfare and administration of troops, expressed the army’s loyalty and commitment to defending the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 culminated in a grand finale featuring a file pass and demonstration, showcasing the army’s military prowess and precision.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ta Lagbaja, presented awards to deserving personnel for their bravery, excellence, and dedication to service.
The COAS awards honoured outstanding personnel who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and commitment to the army’s mission.
The awards ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, Governors, Senators and other senior military officers.
