Grand Finale 2024 Nigerian Army Day Celebration: President Tinubu Restate Commitment to Build a Strong and Professional Army

President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to build a strong, well-equipped, and professional army which Nigerians across the world will continue to be proud of. The President disclosed this at the Grand Finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024, held at the Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos, Plateau State on Saturday 6th July 2024.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the former Governor of Jigawa State and Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar commended the army’s patriotism and selflessness, adding that his government is committed to providing the Army with all that they need to enable them fulfil their constitutional responsibilities.He acknowledged the current deployment of the army in all states of the federation, where they are playing critical roles in maintaining country’s security, development, and existence.

He pledged his administration’s commitment to ensure the equipping and professionalization of the army. The President announced the approval for the payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and the purchase of attack helicopters and combat equipment to enhance the efficiency of the army. He expressed pride in the army’s capabilities, evident in the parade and display, and encouraged army to continue to evolve in order to meet up with and contain emerging security challenges.

President Bola Tinubu also emphasized the importance of public safety and urged the army to sustain progress, evolve strategies, and conduct themselves professionally. He called for collaboration with sister services, security agencies, and citizens, acknowledging the army’s pride and historical significance.

The President highlighted the army’s sacrifices and dedication to protecting the nation, reinforcing their reputation as a symbol of national pride. “I feel proud as your Commander-In-Chief as I watch the array of equipment and your dexterity in handling them. I see the eagerness and pride on the faces of the young men and women as they showed their commitment to defend the country.”

“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I am told, that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brain storming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges. As the world changes, our security architecture must also change to meet up with the new threats. Here is my bottom line: Nigerians must be safe in their fields, on our highways, in our markets and in their homes.”

“The Nigerian Army remains the backbone of the security architecture that would ensure this security. You must sustain the progress made so far and evolve strategies to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding Nigerians. As you take direct action against violent groups, you must remember to conduct yourselves in a manner to reflect your professionalism.”

Earlier in his welcoming address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, underscored the army’s commitment to its mission statement, operational effectiveness, and welfare and administration of troops. He acknowledged and appreciated the support of the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the National Assembly, Defence Headquarters, sister services, and other security agencies. He used the opportunity to appealed for understanding of Nigerians who are living in areas of active combat operations.

He commended the army’s commitment to its mission statement, operational effectiveness, and welfare and administration of troops. He restated the army’s loyalty and commitment to defending the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, presented awards to deserving personnel for their bravery, excellence, and dedication to service. The COAS awards honored outstanding personnel who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and commitment to the army’s mission.

The Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 climaxed with a grand finale which featured activities such as parade and demonstration -showcasing the army’s combat prowess, capacities and capabilities. The event also further featured combat simulations, highlighting the army’s readiness and capability to combat security threats.

The event was well attended by dignitaries such as the Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, Governors, Senators and other senior military officers.