By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to take decisive action against terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatists threatening the country’s peace and unity.
The President made this directive known through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square in Kaduna.
President Tinubu assured the military of his full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those undermining the nation. “To the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now.
“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,” he declared.
The President described terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist movements as grave existential threats that must be tackled head-on. “These evils do not discriminate — they destroy churches and mosques alike and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said, emphasizing the need for a united and uncompromising response.
President Tinubu pledged unwavering federal support for the military, promising sustained investments in modern weaponry, intelligence, and manpower to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty and security are protected.
“We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers. Their willpower, morale, and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security,” said Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
The President paid emotional tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices would never be forgotten. “Many of our finest have fallen in the line of duty. Some now lie in silence beneath the soil of a grateful nation, others carry the wounds of oath as living reminders of sacrifices made in our name. Their blood will not be shed in vain; their memory will endure through generations,” he said.
The 2025 NADCEL event featured military parades, tactical displays, and exhibitions of modern military equipment, drawing applause from dignitaries and thousands of residents.
Notable attendees included former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa,Former Chiefs of Army Staff Lieutenant General Azubuike Ihejirika, Liuternant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, Lieuternant General Faruk Yahaya and other high-ranking officials.