Lagos — President Bola Tinubu, Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday praised the dedication and sacrifices of both serving and retired Nigerian Army officers, describing them as the foundation of Nigeria’s peace and stability.
Their remarks came during the 5-day Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, held at Abalti Barracks, Ojuelegba, Lagos. The conference focused on “Examining the Current Landscape of Terrorism through the Lenses of Diplomatic and Military Actions: Strategy for Long-term Prevention and Stabilisation.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the event. The President acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by military personnel nationwide, emphasizing that Nigeria’s gratitude cannot be fully expressed in words. “You have chosen duty over comfort and service over ease, standing in harm’s way so that our people may sleep in peace,” he stated.
Highlighting the conference’s importance, President Tinubu said it serves as a vital platform for reflection, institutional improvement, and strategic evaluation within the Army. He assured that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting the Nigerian Army in carrying out its constitutional duties.
Since taking office, the President noted progress in transforming the Army into a professional, adaptable, and resilient force. He underscored the government’s dedication to modernizing the Armed Forces through enhanced training, acquisition of modern equipment, and boosting operational capacity. Citing recent advancements, he mentioned the induction of new aviation assets, procurement of armoured and mine-resistant vehicles, and refurbishment of over 100 armoured fighting vehicles now active in service. The positive reports from multiple operational fronts, he said, attest to the Army’s courage and professionalism.
In his address, Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa described the COAS Annual Conference as crucial for reinforcing the Army’s professionalism and ensuring alignment with national security goals. He highlighted the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces from terrorism, banditry, and other security threats, stressing the need for strategic clarity and adaptive leadership. Confident in the conference’s outcomes, he expressed hope that it would generate practical recommendations to improve operational effectiveness in the coming years.
Gen. Musa also praised the resilience of officers and soldiers across various operations, noting that terrorist and criminal groups’ capabilities have been significantly weakened. He emphasized that joint efforts and cooperation among the services are now key pillars of national defence.
Chief of Army Staff, in his welcome remarks, reaffirmed the Army’s focus on becoming a more professional and future-ready force. He commended the support of President Tinubu and the National Assembly in enhancing military operations, modernization, and institutional development. The COAS highlighted successes in counter-terrorism and other internal security efforts.
The Chief of Army Staff also stressed the importance of troop welfare and pledged to maintain a leadership culture that prioritizes the wellbeing of soldiers and their families. “Our soldiers are the core and enduring strength of the Nigerian Army. Ensuring their training, morale, and welfare remains a top priority,” he affirmed, while reiterating the Army’s loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief and the Constitution.
