In the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other security dangers facing the nation, President Bola Tinubu has urged the Nigerian Army to maintain its resolve.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima spoke on Tinubu’s behalf on Sunday in Kaduna during the 2025 Nigerian Army Day celebration (NADCEL) grand finale.
The event commemorated the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army in the nation and had as its topic “Developing the soldier first concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive.”
The president praised the army’s contribution to maintaining Nigeria’s independence since 1863 and said the event was a time for introspection and celebration in honor of those who had given their lives to protect the country.
He pointed out that terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatist agitations are among the existential challenges that Nigeria still faces.
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Tinubu declared, “These are existential threats that call for a united, firm, and uncompromising response.”
“With the timeless phrase, ‘no victor, no vanquished,’ the army ended the Nigerian civil war, reminding Nigerians of their common fate.”
He praised the army for its efforts to peacekeeping operations in Africa and other regions of the world, while also acknowledging the continuous changes within the force.
The president assured the troops of the backing of his administration and urged them to continue functioning with honor, discipline, and a sense of justice.
Tinubu expressed his sympathies to the families of the slain troops and praised Olufemi Oluyede, the chief of army staff (COAS), for his professionalism and leadership.
“They have stood for principle and fought for peace,” he continued.
