President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the Nigerian Army to maintain its apolitical stands and operate strictly within the framework of the Constitution and National Security Strategy.
The President also has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army through improved training, provision of modern equipment and enhanced operational capacity.
He spoke during the opening of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, applauding the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices, professionalism and unwavering dedication to national service.
The President, represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the Nigerian Army as a pillar of national stability, noting that no nation can achieve greatness without security.
He said security remains one of the eight priority areas of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with sustained efforts aimed at eliminating threats and protecting lives and property across the country.
According to him, the annual conference provides a critical platform for honest reflection, rigorous evaluation and continuous improvement in training, administration and operations, especially in a global security environment that is increasingly complex.
“The Nigerian Army has always risen to the challenge of the nation, and this administration will continue to provide full support to ensure the fulfilment of its constitutional mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” he said.
The President commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and all officers and soldiers for what he described as clear vision and sense of purpose in transforming the Army into a professional, adaptable and resilient force capable of operating effectively within joint and multi-agency environments.
Highlighting ongoing modernization efforts, the government disclosed that helicopters have been inducted into the Nigerian Army Aviation, pilots trained, and procurement advanced for additional mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, armoured vehicles and patrol vehicles. It was also revealed that over 100 armoured fighting vehicles have been refurbished and returned to active service.
“These efforts reflect our clear commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness,” the President said, adding that Nigeria is also expanding partnerships with friendly nations to boost research, innovation and indigenous defence production.
The address applauded the Army’s achievements in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities, noting that positive reports from various theatres of operation underscore the courage, resilience and professionalism of the troops. The success of joint operations with other security agencies was also cited as evidence of the power of unity of purpose.
He urged the Army to maintain its apolitical posture and continue operating strictly within the framework of the Constitution and National Security Strategy, stressing that discipline is essential to sustaining public trust.
He also praised the Army’s civil-military cooperation projects nationwide, describing them as evidence that security goes beyond the use of force to include winning hearts, restoring dignity and supporting development.
Paying tribute to fallen heroes, the government reaffirmed its resolve to care for the families of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price, while also improving the welfare of serving personnel through better amenities and support programmes.
Declaring the conference open, the President expressed confidence that deliberations, presentations and debates at the forum would yield practical and actionable strategies to strengthen national security and restore peace across the country.
“With deep faith in your professionalism, I hereby,declare the Chief of Army Staff Sub-Conference 2025 open,” he said.
