The Nigerian military has received another marching order and full backing from President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against terrorists, insurgents, bandits, and separatist elements threatening the unity and territorial integrity of the nation.
President Bola Tinubu had issued marching orders to the military to end banditry and general insecurity by the end of 2025 in February.
This was disclosed then by the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, in a viral video.
Following Tinubu’s order, Badaru said the military will continue its onslaught against bandits and all forms of criminalities. The President also gave another marching order to security chiefs following the killing of at least 218 people with more than 6,000 displaced after a spate of devastating attacks by suspected Fulani militants between 8 and 14 June, with the deadliest on 13 June when a displacement camp numbering 400 people in Yelewata was attacked.
However, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed the recent directive at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square in Kaduna, reaffirmed President Tinubu’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces and all security agencies in their mission to secure the country.
The President stressed that his administration will not condone any action capable of undermining the liberation and total unity of the country. He charged all security agencies to take immediate, resolute steps to guarantee the total elimination of terrorism and banditry across the nation.
Describing terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatism as existential threats that must be decisively defeated, Tinubu assured the military of comprehensive government backing, including the provision of modern weaponry, actionable intelligence, and improved welfare packages.
“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,” the President declared.
“These evils do not discriminate. They destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said. “But under this administration, the welfare and strength of our Armed Forces remain paramount.
“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.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and long live our Armed Forces.”
In his address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, noted that the Nigerian Army has played a historic role as a pillar of national unity since its founding in 1863. He added that the ongoing transformation within the Army is focused on professionalism and troop welfare.
“This year’s NADCEL theme, ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive’, reflects our renewed focus on building a motivated and professional force,” Oluyede said.
He assured Nigerians that the Army, working in synergy with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, is determined to neutralize all security threats and safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
The ceremony drew high-profile dignitaries, including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa; and former Army Chiefs Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya.
Also present were the Emir of Dass (Bauchi State), top military brass, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps, lawmakers, and other dignitaries from across the country.