From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
President Bola Tinubu has challenged the army and other security agencies to go after terrorists, bandits, insurgents and separatists threatening the nation’s peace and unity without fear or hesitation.
He spoke through the Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square, Kaduna yesterday.
The theme for this years’ celebration is ‘Developing the soldier first concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s transformation drive.’
Tinubu said the theme reflected not just strategy but humanity. He added that the event was a time for solemn pause, reflection and celebration, honouring the sacrifices of soldiers, who had patriotically defended the nation.
He stated that the nation was facing challenges from terrorism, insurgency, banditry and separatist agitations, which were existential threats that required a united, firm and uncompromising response.
He also said that the Nigerian Army had been the spine of the nation’s sovereignty since 1863, shaping the course of history and earning its place in the hearts of patriots.
“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 to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation. You are my confidence, my support and my prayers.”
The visibly enraged president warned that terrorism, insurgency, banditry and separatist agitations were no longer mere irritants but grave existential threats.
“These evils do not discriminate; they destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith.”
Tinubu pledged that under his watch, the welfare, morale and operational strength of the armed forces would remain top priority, with sustained investment in modern weapons, intelligence and manpower to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty stays intact.
“We are not oblivious of the challenges that confront our nation. But, let it be said plainly: our response must be united, calm and uncompromising. I assure you that this administration stands firmly with you on that path,” he told the troops.
The president paid glowing tributes to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices would never be in vain.
“Many of our finest have fallen in the line of duty. 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.
Their blood will not be shed in vain; their memory will endure through generations.”
Tinubu also saluted the families of serving and fallen soldiers, praising the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for sustaining morale on the home front.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference or delay. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria and long live our Armed Forces,” he concluded, drawing thunderous applause from the parade ground.
Earlier, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, underscored the Nigerian Army’s long history of resilience since 1863, noting that while the Army has evolved structurally and technologically over time, its greatest asset remains unchanged.
“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier. We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers. Their willpower, morale and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security,” he stressed.
Oluyede reassured Nigerians that despite evolving threats, the Army, in synergy with the Navy, Air Force and other agencies, has consistently denied criminal elements any chance to carve out territories or undermine Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The grand event also featured military parades, tactical drills and an exhibition of advanced hardware, drawing cheers from dignitaries, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps and thousands of Kaduna residents.
Among the prominent guests were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, former Army Chiefs, Lt Gen Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya, as well as service chiefs, lawmakers and royal fathers.