In Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, President Bola Tinubu pledged that he would prevail in the fight to maintain Nigeria’s security.
Thus, he pledged that he would keep up his hard work and give the military the resources they needed to keep the country’s troublemakers at bay.
Speaking at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2023 in the capital of Borno State, the president declared that he would not be backing down or resting on his achievements in protecting Nigeria.
President Tinubu acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s dedication to national security and asked the army to remain nonpartisan but vigilant in upholding democratic principles, emphasizing their role as a guardian of constitutional order during elections, according to a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity).
The way the Armed Forces conducted themselves professionally during the elections in the states of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi highlights your responsibility as a protector of democracy and our constitutional system, the speaker stated. In this sense, the Nigerian Army must continue to be apolitical yet steadfastly democratic.
“We are also pleased to see how many civilian-military projects are underway nationwide, some of which will be put into service during this conference.”These initiatives not only foster greater understanding and camaraderie between the military and the civilian populace, but they also directly improve people’s quality of life.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing the ongoing modernization process within the military, with a focus on improving mobility, communications, and offensive striking capabilities. He cited the recent acquisition of new aircraft as evidence of his resolve to upgrade national defense capability.
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The President recalled his previous approval of N18 billion in Group Life Assurance benefits for the families of fallen heroes, even as he pledged ongoing government support for the welfare of serving personnel and their families. The President also expressed the nation’s gratitude for the armed forces’ sacrifice and service.
The President’s new strategy for strengthening military cooperation and empowering the army, according to Minister of Defense Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has significantly raised military morale.
You are a man of your word, Mr. President. Nigerians were promised advancements in the battle against insecurity by your Renewed Hope program. The military personnel are more dedicated than in the past. They view the development they are documenting. They are aware of the harm they are causing to our adversaries. Their spirits are high. Because of your leadership, our adversaries do not. Mr. President, thank you,” said the minister.
While recognizing the unwavering commitment of the Tinubu administration to significant investments to improve the operational capabilities of the military, he promised to continue supporting the Nigerian military in the supply of infrastructure.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, told the President that ongoing military operations around the nation had considerably reduced the power of criminal elements while also containing farmer-herder crises in different regions.
“Even with these successes, we understand the value of ongoing assessment, and this meeting will be crucial in developing long-term plans to support our capacity to fulfill our constitutional obligation in 2024,” the Army Chief stated.
