The Federal Government has assured the Nigerian Army of its continuos support in its effort to confront and defeat the adversaries of the nation.
President Bola Tinubu gave the assurance at the grand finale of this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration-NADCEL held in Kaduna State.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President noted that in view of the enormous sacrifices made by officers and men of the Army, the Federal Government remains committed to investing in modern equipment, in intelligence and in the human capital that drives its effectiveness.
He pointed out that no nation can build a great Army without first building strong soldiers in terms of their welfare, morale, equipment and sense of purpose.
Drawing from the theme for this year’s celebration, President Bola Tinubu expressed delight over the Army’s commitment to placing the soldier at its centre of reform, describing it as the bedrock of national security.
The President congratulated the Army on its One Hundred and Sixty-second year anniversary, describing it as a moment of history and of collective memory, and one that bears the full weight of national gratitude.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Olufemi Oluyede explained that this year’s celebration was holding at a time when a large number of troops are fully committed to on-going operations across the country.
He pointed out that recently, the Army in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, have risen to the occasion of denying adversaries the opportunity to disrupt the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
Lt General Oluyede however assured law-abiding citizens of Nigeria that the Army would continue to protect, defend and not oppress them.
The grand finale featured a march parade, and demonstrations by personnel from various units and formations, presentation of awards and honours to serving and fallen personnel as well as a tour of research and development display stands.
The theme for this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration-NADCEL is “developing the soldier first concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s transformation drive”
Usman Sani.
