President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military to confront Boko Haram terrorists, bandits, separatists, and other criminal gangs threatening the peace and sovereignty of the nation, stating that the time to crush the criminals is now.
The president gave this marching order at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day celebration held in Kaduna State.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of officers and soldiers of the armed forces.
He also pledged to continue to invest in modern equipment, intelligence, and human capital that would improve the effectiveness of the military.
The president, who was represented by Vice, Kashim Shettima, reminded the officers and men to discharge their duties with a high sense of professionalism, courage, discipline, and honour, guided by the nation’s constitution and international best practices.
“The Nigerian Army has never been just a force of arms. It has been a symbol of unity and duty. It brought the Nigerian Civil War to a close. With those immortal words uttered by the revived General Yakubu Gawane, right now seated in this venue, no big toe, no big toe, no bank wish, reminding us that we are one people with one destiny, and beyond our borders, our men and women have carried our flag high on peacekeeping missions across the continent and around the globe.
“They have fought not for conquest, but for peace. They have stood not for power, but for principle. Today, we honour the enduring sacrifice of these men and women.
“We honour those who have paid the supreme price. And we honour those who continue to wear the uniform, who stand at the gates of our democracy, shielding us from those who would tear it down,” he said
