In a resolute address during the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2023 held in Maiduguri, Borno State on Monday, President Bola Tinubu affirmed his unwavering dedication to fortifying the nation’s security apparatus. He pledged to continue working diligently and providing the military with essential support to address challenges threatening the stability of the nation.
According to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu stated this at an audience that included top military brass, conveyed his unequivocal determination to prevail in the battle for Nigeria’s safety. He emphasized his refusal to relent or rest on laurels, underscoring his administration’s commitment to winning the ongoing struggle for national security.
Acknowledging the Nigerian Army’s dedication to safeguarding the nation, President Tinubu urged the armed forces to remain impartial but vigilant in upholding democratic principles, particularly during elections. He commended the Army’s professional conduct in recent elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States, emphasizing their pivotal role as guardians of constitutional order and democracy.
President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with various civilian-military projects across the country, some of which are slated for commissioning during the conference. These initiatives, he noted, foster closer affinity and mutual understanding between the military and civilian population while tangibly improving living conditions.
Citing recent procurement of new aircraft as evidence of his administration’s commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities, President Tinubu affirmed a focus on modernization within the military. This involves improvements in mobility, communications, and offensive striking capabilities.
Grateful for the service and sacrifice of the armed forces, President Tinubu recalled his approval of N18 billion in Group Life Assurance benefits for families of fallen heroes. He pledged continuous government support for the welfare of serving personnel and their families.
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, lauded President Tinubu’s approach to empowering the military and fostering intra-military collaboration. He credited the President’s leadership for significantly boosting morale within the armed forces and expressed gratitude on behalf of the nation.
The Minister pledged to sustain support for the military in infrastructure provision, highlighting the Tinubu administration’s substantial investments to enhance operational capabilities.
In his briefing to the President, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja detailed the success of ongoing military operations in weakening criminal elements and addressing farmer-herder crises in different parts of the country. He emphasized the importance of continuous evaluation, citing the conference as instrumental in formulating long-term strategies for the Army’s constitutional responsibilities in 2024.
