Tinubu to Troops: You Have My Full Backing to Crush Terrorists, Separatists
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given the Nigerian Army and other security agencies full authorisation to go after terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatists threatening Nigeria’s peace and unity, declaring that such threats are no longer minor irritants but grave existential dangers.
The President issued the charge during the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square, Kaduna, on Saturday.
Tinubu, who was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
“With absolute clarity, I say to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army: the time to rise is now,” Tinubu declared.
“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 warned that terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations have evolved beyond localized disruptions to serious national security threats, requiring unified and uncompromising responses.
“These evils do not discriminate; they destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.
Speaking on the theme of the event “Developing the soldier first concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s transformation drive” — Tinubu noted that it reflected a strategy built not only on tactical evolution but also human development.
The President pledged continued prioritisation of troop welfare, operational capability, and investment in modern weapons, intelligence and manpower.
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“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,” he affirmed.
He paid glowing tributes to fallen and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices would not 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.”
President Tinubu also saluted the families of troops, praising the support structures provided by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for maintaining morale at home.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference or delay,” he said to a resounding ovation.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, recounted the Nigerian Army’s history of resilience dating back to 1863, noting that the most enduring asset of the Army remains its personnel.
“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers,” he said. “Their willpower, morale and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security.”
Oluyede added that the Army, working in synergy with sister services and security agencies, has consistently denied criminal elements the opportunity to occupy or destabilise Nigerian territory.
The celebration also featured military parades, tactical displays, and exhibitions of cutting-edge hardware. The event drew dignitaries including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani; Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle; Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa; service chiefs; former Army Chiefs Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya; as well as lawmakers, diplomats, and traditional rulers.
By PRNigeria
