December 15, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s unwavering commitment to deploy all available military and law enforcement resources to tackle security threats and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
He announced the acquisition of new armoured assets and the refurbishment of over 100 Armoured Fighting Vehicles for the Armed Forces.
The President made the declaration on Monday in Ojuelegba, Lagos, during the opening of the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented him at the event.
Reiterating that security is a cornerstone of his Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu emphasised that no nation can achieve sustainable development without peace.
He assured that his administration remains resolute in confronting all forms of insecurity across the country.
“There is no nation that can achieve greatness without security. This government remains resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians,” he said.
The President disclosed that, in addition to the recent induction of helicopters into Nigerian Army Aviation and the training of pilots, the government is procuring additional Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicles, armoured vehicles, and patrol vehicles to enhance troop protection and battlefield effectiveness.
Over 100 Armoured Fighting Vehicles have been refurbished and returned to active service, underscoring the administration’s commitment to strengthening operational readiness.
President Tinubu also announced that the Federal Government is deepening partnerships with friendly nations to promote research, innovation, and indigenous defence production, aiming for long-term self-reliance in defence and security.
He commended the Nigerian Army for notable gains in the fight against terrorism and other security challenges, noting that improved outcomes from various theatres of operation reflect professionalism, courage, and effective joint operations with sister services and security agencies.
“The positive reports emerging from the various theatres of operation are encouraging and stand as testimony to your resilience and professionalism,” he said, assuring the Armed Forces of continued government support in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He highlighted that security is one of the eight priority areas of his administration and emphasised the importance of discipline, professionalism, and the military’s apolitical posture in sustaining public trust.
President Tinubu also praised the Nigerian Army’s civil-military cooperation initiatives nationwide, stressing that security efforts must include winning hearts and minds, restoring dignity, and supporting grassroots development.
He paid tribute to fallen soldiers, promising that their sacrifices would not be forgotten, and assured continued support for their families while improving welfare for serving personnel.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the Army for strengthening civil-military relations in the state and reaffirmed the government’s support for the military’s constitutional duties.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing sustained policy direction for the Nigerian Army, urging officers to remain loyal and united to effectively tackle national security challenges.
In his welcome address, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu unveiled welfare packages aimed at improving the wellbeing of officers and men, boosting morale, and enhancing operational effectiveness.
He noted that President Tinubu has consistently provided for the operational needs of the Army since taking office.
A highlight of the conference was the unveiling of a biography of the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, by Vice President Shettima, alongside senior military officers and dignitaries.
Vice President Shettima also presented 15 Toyota Hilux vehicles to deserving warrant officers to motivate personnel and reward excellence.
Additionally, he witnessed the presentation of cheques under the Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Scheme to the families of five fallen soldiers.
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