Hunt Down, Defeat Terrorists, Bandits, Separatists, Tinubu Orders Military

*Pledges more weapons, support for troops at 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Kaduna

By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm directive to the Nigerian military and all security agencies to decisively hunt down and defeat terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist elements threatening Nigeria’s unity and peace.

The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held on Sunday at Murtala Square, Kaduna, declared that the time for decisive action has come.

“You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.

“You are my confidence, my support, and my prayers,” Tinubu said.

Describing terrorism, banditry, and secessionist agitations as “grave existential threats,” the President emphasized that these evils “do not discriminate,” destroying lives and communities regardless of religion or ethnicity.

He vowed to prioritize the welfare and operational readiness of the armed forces through increased investment in modern weaponry, intelligence infrastructure, and manpower development.

“We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria and long live our Armed Forces,” he concluded, drawing thunderous applause.

President Tinubu also paid heartfelt tributes to fallen and wounded soldiers, describing them as, “the silent heroes beneath the soil of a grateful nation” and pledging that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

He lauded the resilience of military families and commended the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for their support on the home front.

Earlier, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, reflected on the Army’s legacy since 1863 and emphasized the importance of soldier-focused reforms under the theme “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive.

“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers,” he said, stressing that the Army remains steadfast in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies.

The event featured military parades, tactical demonstrations, and displays of advanced equipment. Dignitaries present included former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, former Army Chiefs, lawmakers, royal fathers, and thousands of citizens.

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