By OLADAPO UDOM

President Bola Tinubu has said that the government will mobilise all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians.

The President said this on Monday at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference in Lagos

Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, said that his administration was determined to restore Nigeria’s pride of place in Africa and beyond charging the military to remain steadfast, disciplined and professional.

“We are primarily committed to the modernisation of the armed forces through improved training, modern equipment, and enhanced operational capacity to confront evolving threats.

“Following the induction of helicopters into the Nigerian Army Aviation and the training of pilots, we have advanced the procurement of additional mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, armored vehicles, and patrol vehicles.

“We have also refurbished over 100 armored fighting vehicles now returned to active service. These efforts reflect our clear commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness,” he said.

Tinubu said that his administration was deepening partnerships with friendly nations to expand research, innovation, and indigenous production, steadily moving Nigeria towards a new reliance in defense and security.

He applauded the army and the armed forces remarkable achievements in the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities.

According to him, the positive reports emerging from the various theaters of operations were encouraging and stand as testimony to their courage, resilience, and professionalism.

He said that the gains recorded through joint operations with sister services and other security agencies further underscore the power of unity of purpose in our collective resolve to safeguard the nation.

“The Nigerian Army must continue to uphold its apolitical posture and operate strictly within the framework of the constitution and the national security strategy,” he said.

The president said that he was particularly pleased with the Army’s extensive civil-military cooperation initiatives across the country.

“These initiatives speak to understanding that security is not only about force of arms, but also about winning hearts, restoring dignity, and improving the quality of life of our people,” he said.

Tinubu recognised the impressive successes recorded by the Nigerian Army in its diverse operations and training activities.

He said that the efforts had sharpened the effectiveness of troops and enhanced their capacity to operate in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous security environment, both locally and globally.

“The nation deeply values your sacrifices and remains grateful to the officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in defense of our fatherland.

“Their courage is etched permanently into our national memory. As a government, we are resolved in our responsibility to care for the families of our fallen heroes, ensuring that they are supported and never forgotten.

“Equally, we must continue to motivate and enhance the welfare of serving personnel through improved amenities and programs that reflect our appreciation for your service,” Tinubu said.

He said that his administration would continue to provide the motivation, support, and resources required for the Nigerian army to excel in its noble duty of defending our territorial integrity.

Tinubu commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Waidi Shaibu, all officers and soldiers for the clarity of vision and sense of purpose with which they continued to lead and serve.

The conference will end on Dec. 19. (NAN)

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