“President Tinubu To Soldiers: You Have My Backing — Leave No Terrorist Standing!”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his order to the Nigerian Army and other security forces to take firm action against terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatists endangering Nigeria’s peace and unity.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, Tinubu charged the military to rise to the challenge without hesitation.

“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 have my confidence, my support, and my prayers,” the President declared.

Tinubu painted a stark picture of the security landscape, stressing that the threats confronting Nigeria were no longer minor disruptions but serious existential dangers.

“These evils do not discriminate – they destroy churches and mosques alike; they orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.

He assured the military that under his administration, the welfare, morale, and operational readiness of the Armed Forces would remain top priorities. He pledged continued investment in modern weapons, intelligence gathering, and personnel development to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty remains 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 added.

President Tinubu also paid heartfelt tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes and injured personnel, acknowledging their courage and sacrifices.

“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,” he said.

He commended the families of serving and fallen soldiers, including the efforts of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), for supporting military families and sustaining morale at home.

“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 loud applause from the audience.

In his remarks, Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, reflected on the long and storied legacy of the Nigerian Army since its founding in 1863. He emphasized that while the Army has grown structurally and technologically, its greatest strength remains its soldiers’ unwavering resolve and courage.

“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier,” he said.

Oluyede noted that the theme of this year’s NADCEL — “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive” — was designed to place troop welfare and professionalism at the heart of the Army’s reform efforts.

“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.

He reassured Nigerians that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, has remained relentless in denying criminal elements the space to claim territory or disrupt national unity.

The celebration featured a vibrant parade, tactical drills, and a display of advanced military equipment. Dignitaries, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps, and thousands of residents applauded the Army’s strength and discipline.

Notable attendees included former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, and former Chiefs of Army Staff including Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya.

Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
”BUSHRADIO REPORTS”