President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Armed Forces to take decisive action against terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatists threatening national security, vowing full presidential support and increased investment in defense.
President Tinubu Declares Zero Tolerance for National Security Threats
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern directive to the Nigerian Armed Forces and security agencies to decisively confront all security threats — including terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist agitators — who are undermining the unity and peace of the nation.
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Delivering the president’s message at the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square, Kaduna, Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed that the military has the full mandate and trust of the presidency to act boldly and without hesitation.
“To the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorisation and the trust of the Nigerian people,” Tinubu emphasized.
Military Backed with Unwavering Federal Support
President Tinubu pledged sustained federal investment in the military, including modern weaponry, advanced intelligence systems, and manpower development. He reiterated that the fight against terrorism and insecurity is non-negotiable, noting that the enemies of the state do not differentiate by religion or ethnicity.
“These evils do not discriminate — they destroy churches and mosques alike, orphaning children without asking their tribe or faith,” Tinubu remarked.
Unity, Professionalism, and Morale at the Core of Army Reforms
Highlighting the theme of this year’s Army Day Celebration, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized that reforms are focused on soldier welfare, professionalism, and morale.
Oluyede stated that the Army’s transformation must begin with the individual soldier, as their dedication, training, and willpower form the bedrock of national security.
“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers,” he affirmed.
Tributes to Fallen Heroes and Military Families
President Tinubu paid an emotional tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, acknowledging their immense sacrifices in preserving the nation’s sovereignty.
“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,” he said. “Their blood will not be shed in vain.”
He also saluted the support from military families, particularly through the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), for helping sustain morale at home.
Army Vows Continued Joint Operations with Other Forces
Lt. Gen. Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, remains committed to denying criminal groups any safe haven across the country. The military, he said, will continue its mission to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect citizens from all forms of violence.
Colorful Celebrations and Distinguished Guests
The 2025 NADCEL grand finale featured military parades, tactical drills, and displays of cutting-edge military hardware, drawing applause from thousands of Kaduna residents and visiting dignitaries.
Prominent guests in attendance included:
- Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon
- Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani
- Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar
- Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle
- Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa
- Former Chiefs of Army Staff including Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya
- Federal lawmakers, service chiefs, and traditional rulers
Key Quotes from the 2025 Army Day Address
| Speaker | Quote |
|---|---|
| President Tinubu | “You are my confidence, my support, and my prayers.” |
| VP Shettima | “The military has the full authorisation of the presidency to act without fear or hesitation.” |
| Lt. Gen. Oluyede | “The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the spirit and commitment of the soldier.” |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was the main message from President Tinubu during the Army Day Celebration? President Tinubu called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to decisively tackle terrorism, insurgency, and separatism, assuring them of full government support.
2. What theme guided the 2025 Army Day Celebration? The theme was “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” focusing on soldier welfare and professionalism.
3. How is the government supporting the Nigerian military? The government is investing in advanced weaponry, intelligence systems, and manpower training to modernize and strengthen the military.
4. What role do military families play according to the President? President Tinubu acknowledged their vital support in sustaining troop morale, especially through associations like NAOWA and NASWA.
5. Who were the key attendees at the NADCEL event in Kaduna? Notable guests included former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna Governor Uba Sani, ministers, service chiefs, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.
6. What did Lt. Gen. Oluyede say about the future of the Nigerian Army? He emphasized professionalism, morale, and inter-agency collaboration as critical components of the Army’s transformation and national security mission.
