President Bola Tinubu has urged the Nigerian Army to continue fighting terrorism, insurgency, and other security concerns that the nation faces.
Speaking at the 2025 Nigerian Army Day celebration (NADCEL) grand finale in Kaduna on Sunday, Tinubu was accompanied by Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
With the subject “Developing the soldier first concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive,” the event commemorated the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army.
The president praised the army’s contribution to maintaining Nigeria’s independence since 1863 and said the event, which honors soldiers who have given their lives to protect the country, is a moment for introspection and joy.
Insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and separatist agitations are among the existential risks that Nigeria still faces, he said.
According to Tinubu, “a united, firm, and uncompromising response is required to address these existential threats.”
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“The army reminded Nigerians of their common fate by concluding the civil war with the timeless phrase, ‘no victor, no vanquished.'”
He acknowledged the army’s continuous reforms and gave the force credit for its contributions to peacekeeping operations in Africa and other regions of the world.
Assuring them of the backing of his administration, the president urged troops to continue working with honor, discipline, and a sense of justice.
In addition to offering his condolences to the families of the slain troops, Tinubu praised Olufemi Oluyede, the chief of army staff (COAS), for his professionalism and leadership.
He said, “They have stood for principle and fought for peace.”
