…Promises Comprehensive Support in Arms, Intelligence, and Welfare

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted the Nigerian Armed Forces full
authority to take decisive and uncompromising action against all
actors threatening the nation’s unity: namely terrorists, insurgents,
bandits, and separatist groups.

Delivering the President’s message at the grand finale of the 2025
Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), held at Murtala Square in
Kaduna, Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed Tinubu’s firm
commitment to national security. The President reaffirmed his
administration’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces and security
agencies in their mission to secure the country’s territorial
integrity.

“To the brave officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this
with utmost clarity: now is the time to act,” President Tinubu
declared. “You have my full backing—and the trust of the Nigerian
people—to confront and defeat those who seek to destabilize our
nation.”

He described terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatism as
existential dangers that must be eradicated, assuring the military of
continued support through the provision of modern weapons, actionable
intelligence, and improved welfare packages.

“These forces of evil know no boundaries—they destroy both churches
and mosques, and orphan innocent children regardless of ethnicity or
faith,” he noted. “Under this administration, the strength and
well-being of our Armed Forces remain a top priority.”

The President also honored fallen heroes and wounded soldiers for
their selfless service in defense of the country.

“Many of our finest have paid the ultimate price. Some now rest in
honored silence beneath the soil of a grateful nation, while others
live with the scars of sacrifice,” he said. “Their blood will not be
shed in vain.”

He praised the resilience of military families, especially the efforts
of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the
Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), acknowledging their
vital role in supporting soldiers at home.

“We have no other country but Nigeria,” Tinubu emphasized. “We must
not allow division, apathy, or delay to jeopardize our collective
future. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria; long live our Armed
Forces.”

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi
Oluyede, reaffirmed the Army’s historic role as a symbol of unity
since its establishment in 1863. He highlighted that the current
transformation drive is centered on professionalism and improving
troop welfare.

“This year’s NADCEL theme—‘Developing the Soldier First Concept:
Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive’—captures our
renewed focus on building a motivated, capable, and professional
force,” the COAS stated.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede assured the nation that the Nigerian Army, in
collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies,
remains fully committed to confronting all security challenges and
preserving the sovereignty of the nation.

The NADCEL 2025 grand finale featured a military parade, tactical
displays, an exhibition of military equipment, and demonstrations
showcasing the operational capabilities of the various Army corps.

The event drew a host 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 such as the Emir of Dass (Bauchi
State), senior military officials, members of the diplomatic corps,
legislators, and other distinguished guests from across the nation.

The 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration not only highlighted the might
and professionalism of the Army but also underscored the government’s
resolute determination to secure the country and stand firmly behind
its defenders.