President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s resolve to reposition and strengthen the Nigerian Army as the country grapples with growing security challenges.
The President made the declaration at the closing ceremony of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, held on Monday at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said his administration would modernise the Nigerian Army by deploying emerging technologies and strengthening operational capabilities across all theatres of operation to improve military planning, combat readiness and the nation’s response to evolving security threats.
“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the adoption of emerging technologies and the building of capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness,” he stated.
He noted that ongoing investment in research and development within the Armed Forces, alongside efforts to advance technology and strengthen homegrown innovation, continues to gain traction.
Central to this drive, he said, is the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON, with the forum’s partnership expected to inject fresh momentum into local defence manufacturing, create skilled jobs and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to support counter-terrorism operations through indigenous production.
Tinubu also welcomed the establishment of the African Land Forces Forum, describing it as a platform for strengthening security cooperation across Africa.
“This administration is committed to modernising our Army to enhance its capacity to meet contemporary security challenges,” Tinubu said, adding that his government shares the aspirations of the forum’s organisers to elevate Nigeria’s standing in defence diplomacy and enhance the Army’s combat readiness through shared expertise.
The President commended Nigerian troops for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and pledged that the Federal Government would continue to support the families of personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
“To the officers and men of the Nigerian Army, you carry a trust that few are asked to bear, and you carry it with an honour that steadies the whole nation.
“Serve the people with the same devotion you bring to defending them, for the uniform commands respect only when it protects the weak and upholds the dignity of every citizen,” he said.
Also speaking, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara commended the Nigerian Army for its notable strides in technological advancement and manpower development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s continued support for the institution and called for improved welfare for soldiers, saying better conditions of service would enhance their effectiveness in carrying out their duties.
In his welcome remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said this year’s celebration comes at a critical period, with more than 80 per cent of Nigerian soldiers currently engaged in operations against insurgency and other security threats across the country.
He observed that the Army has continually evolved alongside the nation over the decades, adapting to emerging realities and assuming greater responsibilities in defence of the country.
Shaibu said the Army is aware of the infiltration of jihadist groups from neighbouring countries and assured Nigerians that troops remain fully prepared to confront and defeat the threat.
He described the Army as an institution anchored on selfless service, unwavering loyalty, honour, courage and sacrifice, stressing its unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, preserving its territorial integrity and protecting the lives and aspirations of its citizens.
Describing the anniversary as a renewal of the Army’s dedication to national service, he said, “This celebration is also a reaffirmation of our commitment to protecting the nation and serving the people, regardless of the challenges of any era.”
He added that the Army is closely monitoring the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel region.
“We have already noticed the footprints of foreign jihadists across our borders. However, I would like to assure us all that the Nigerian Army is alert and equal to the task.
“Like our forebears who successfully dealt with the challenges of their generations during the two World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War and the ECOMOG missions, the Nigerian Army of today will certainly prevail in confronting the security challenges of our generation,” Shaibu said.
This year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration was held under the theme, “Protecting the People and Serving the Nation: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
The event featured demonstrations of the Army’s land and aerial combat capabilities, alongside parades by its various corps and departments.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of the Naval Staff, the Chief of the Air Staff, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Head of State Yakubu Gowon, retired service chiefs and Army chiefs from several African countries, among other dignitaries.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
