President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted the Nigerian military full authority to decisively combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist movements threatening the peace, unity, and territorial integrity of the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the President at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed a strong message of support and empowerment to the Armed Forces. He emphasized the Tinubu administration’s firm resolve to eliminate all forces undermining national stability.
“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 authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation,” Tinubu declared.
The President described the challenges of terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatism as existential threats, affirming that these adversaries would be met with unrelenting force backed by modern weaponry, strategic intelligence, and enhanced welfare provisions for military personnel.
“These evils do not discriminate. They destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he stated. “But under this administration, the welfare and strength of our armed forces remain paramount.”
He paid solemn tribute to the gallant men and women of the military who have laid down their lives in service to the nation. According to him, their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
“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.”
The President also lauded the resilience and patriotism of military families, giving special recognition to the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for their unwavering support to troops on the frontlines.
“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,” Tinubu concluded.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized the historical role of the Nigerian Army as a cornerstone of national unity since its establishment in 1863. He highlighted the Army’s ongoing transformation agenda, centered on professionalism and prioritization of troop welfare.
“This year’s NADCEL theme, ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive’, reflects our renewed focus on building a motivated and professional force,” Oluyede stated.
He assured Nigerians that the Army, in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, is fully committed to neutralizing all internal and external security threats and ensuring the country’s sovereignty is upheld.
The NADCEL 2025 grand finale featured a military parade, tactical maneuvers, displays of military hardware, and exhibitions demonstrating the operational capabilities and readiness of various Army units.
The event drew a distinguished gathering of dignitaries including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, and former Chiefs of Army Staff—Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya.
Also present were traditional rulers, top military officers, lawmakers, members of the diplomatic corps, and other prominent figures from across Nigeria.
The 2025 NADCEL celebration not only highlighted the professionalism and preparedness of the Nigerian Army but also sent a clear message of national resolve: the Federal Government stands firmly behind its Armed Forces in the quest to restore lasting peace and security across the country.
