Tinubu to Military: Crush All Threats to Nigeria’s Unity Without Hesitation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a resolute directive to the Nigerian military and other security agencies, ordering them to decisively confront and defeat all elements threatening the nation’s unity and peace. The President’s firm mandate, delivered through Vice President Kashim Shettima, came on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square in Kaduna.

Addressing the officers and soldiers, President Tinubu declared with “absolute clarity” that “the time to rise is now.” He affirmed that the military has his “full authorisation and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.”

The President minced no words in describing the nature of the threats confronting Nigeria, warning that terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatist agitations are no longer mere irritants but “grave existential dangers.” He underscored the indiscriminate nature of these evils, stating, “These evils do not discriminate — they destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith.”

President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to equipping the armed forces with the necessary resources. He pledged sustained investment in modern weaponry, intelligence capabilities, and personnel development to ensure the military remains battle-ready and capable of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty. “We are not oblivious of the challenges that confront our nation. But let it be said plainly: our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. I assure you that this administration stands firmly with you on that path,” he stated.

The President also paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices would “not be shed in vain” and that their memory would “endure through generations.” He extended appreciation to the families of servicemen and women, acknowledging the crucial role of associations like the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) in sustaining morale.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, traced the Nigerian Army’s 162-year history, emphasizing that despite evolving structures and technology, its strength fundamentally lies in its personnel. He noted that the 2025 NADCEL theme, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” prioritizes troop welfare and training as central to the Army’s reform agenda.

Oluyede further assured Nigerians of ongoing collaboration with other security agencies, affirming that joint efforts have consistently thwarted criminal groups from gaining control over any part of Nigeria. The vibrant ceremony featured military parades, tactical drills, and exhibitions of cutting-edge hardware, drawing a large audience of dignitaries and residents.