... Pledges Support for Nigerian Army at 161st Anniversary Celebration In Jos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to build a strong, well-equipped, and professional army which Nigerians across the world will continue to be proud of.
President Tinubu, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, disclosed this at the Nigerian Army grand finale event of its 161st anniversary hheldtoday, Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the Headquarters 3 Division Parade Ground, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau State.
President Tinubu commended the army’s patriotism and selflessness, adding that his government is committed to providing the Army with all that they need to enable them fulfil their constitutional responsibilities.
He acknowledged the current deployment of the army in all states of the federation, where they are playing critical roles in maintaining country’s security, development, and existence.
He pledged his administration’s commitment to ensure the equipping and professionalization of the army. The President announced the approval for the payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and the purchase of attack helicopters and combat equipment to enhance the efficiency of the army.
He expressed pride in the army’s capabilities, evident in the parade and display, and encouraged army to continue to evolve in order to meet up with and contain emerging security challenges.
President Bola Tinubu also emphasized the importance of public safety and urged the army to sustain progress, evolve strategies, and conduct themselves professionally. He called for collaboration with sister services, security agencies, and citizens, acknowledging the army’s pride and historical significance.
The President highlighted the army’s sacrifices and dedication to protecting the nation, reinforcing their reputation as a symbol of national pride. “I feel proud as your Commander-In-Chief as I watch the array of equipment and your dexterity in handling them. I see the eagerness and pride on the faces of the young men and women as they showed their commitment to defend the country.”
“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I am told, that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brain storming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges. As the world changes, our security architecture must also change to meet up with the new threats. Here is my bottom line: Nigerians must be safe in their fields, on our highways, in our markets and in their homes.”
“The Nigerian Army remains the backbone of the security architecture that would ensure this security. You must sustain the progress made so far and evolve strategies to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding Nigerians. As you take direct action against violent groups, you must remember to conduct yourselves in a manner to reflect your professionalism.”
Earlier Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), delivered a welcome address highlighting the Army’s dedication to national security and its collaborative efforts with the community.
The week-long celebration, themed “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges Within a Joint Environment,” showcased the Army’s ongoing commitment to national security and community engagement.
The festivities began with Juma’at prayers and an interdenominational church service, followed by the commissioning of CIMIC projects, a free medical outreach, the NADCEL Lecture, and the award ceremony for the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Literary Competition. Additionally, the Army hosted an interactive session with media representatives and a golf tournament.
