President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to deploy all military and law enforcement assets to crush security threats and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
He announced the procurement of Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicles, a new armoured fleet for the military, and the refurbishment of more than 100 Armoured Fighting Vehicles returned to active service.
The President made this known on Monday in Ojuelegba, Lagos State, while declaring open the 2025 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference at the Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks.
He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Tinubu said security remains a core pillar of his Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that no nation can achieve meaningful development without safety and stability.
He assured that his government remains resolute in eliminating all forms of security threats across the country.
He noted that the Federal Government is committed to modernising the Armed Forces through improved training, advanced equipment, and enhanced operational capacity.
According to him, the induction of helicopters into Nigerian Army Aviation, pilot training, and the acquisition of additional armoured and patrol vehicles are aimed at boosting troop protection and battlefield effectiveness.
The President added that partnerships with friendly nations are being strengthened to promote research, innovation, and indigenous defence production, with the long-term goal of achieving self-reliance in national security.
Commending the Nigerian Army, Tinubu said recent reports from various theatres of operation indicate improved outcomes driven by professionalism, courage, and effective joint operations with sister security agencies.
He assured the Armed Forces of the government’s unwavering support in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while emphasising discipline, professionalism, and adherence to constitutional order as essential to sustaining public trust.
The President also praised the Army’s civil-military cooperation efforts, noting that security operations must extend to winning hearts, restoring dignity, and supporting grassroots development.
He paid tribute to fallen soldiers and pledged continued support for their families and improved welfare for serving personnel.
Earlier, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s support for the Nigerian Army, while the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), assured of continued policy backing to strengthen military operations nationwide.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, unveiled new welfare packages to boost morale and operational effectiveness, commending the Federal Government for consistently meeting the Army’s operational needs.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of a biography of the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, presentation of 15 Toyota Hilux vehicles to warrant officers, and the presentation of insurance cheques to families of fallen soldiers.
The conference was attended by senior military officers, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
Bello Wakili
