President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, vowed not to falter in the fight to ensure Nigeria’s security, emphasizing his commitment to supplying the military with vital support to deter those disrupting the nation.
The President addressed the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2023 in Maiduguri, Borno State, as stated by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale.
The President asserted his unwavering determination to secure Nigeria, emphasizing his commitment to prevailing in the ongoing efforts to maintain national safety.
Tinubu, recognizing the Nigerian Army’s dedication to national security, encouraged the military to stay impartial yet vigilant in upholding democratic principles. He underscored their crucial role as guardians of constitutional order, particularly during elections.
“The professional conduct of the Armed Forces during the elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States underscores your role as a guardian of our constitutional order and democracy precepts. In this regard, the Nigerian Army must remain completely non-partisan but vigilantly pro-democracy.”
“We also note with great satisfaction the many civilian-military projects across the country, some of which will be commissioned during this Conference.”
“These projects not only bring the military and civilian population into closer affinity and mutual understanding, they also serve the practical purpose of tangibly improving the living conditions of the people,” the President said.
Highlighting the recent acquisition of new aircraft as evidence of his determination to enhance national defense capabilities, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s dedication to advancing the ongoing modernization efforts within the military. The focus remains on enhancing mobility, communications, and offensive striking capabilities.
During the briefing, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, updated the President on the considerable impact of ongoing military operations across the nation, notably diminishing the strength of criminal elements. Additionally, these operations have effectively addressed and managed farmer-herders crises in various parts of the country.
“Notwithstanding these achievements, we recognize the importance of continuous evaluation and this conference will be instrumental in formulating long-term strategies to bolster our ability to carry out our constitutional responsibility in the year 2024,” the Army Chief said.