President Bola Tinubu has called on the Nigerian military to maintain a high level of vigilance and commitment in their mission to safeguard the country.
A Renewed Focus on Security
The president made this statement on Saturday in Kaduna during the Passing Out Parade of 707 cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy. The cadets, who were commissioned into the armed forces, belonged to the 70 Regular Course, as well as Direct Short Service Course 27 (Army) and 31 (Air Force).
Tinubu’s Administration Stands in Solidarity
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu affirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing all security challenges and pledged support to the military in that regard.
He reminded the military and all Nigerians that without constant vigilance, efforts to fortify and stabilize the country would remain unattainable.
Tinubu emphasized that the military officers, being part of a dynamic landscape, would face combat and regimental realities that are vastly different from those encountered by their predecessors. He stated, “The future of our great country doesn’t only rest upon your valour, but also the curricula with which the warriors and scholars are formed.”
Empowering the Citizens
Assuring the citizens, President Tinubu announced that the government would implement programs and policies aimed at empowering them to combat the challenges of poverty, criminality, and terrorism.
He also acknowledged the government’s proactive measures in preparing for the food security crisis triggered by the Russian-Ukrainian war, as well as responding to banditry attacks on farmers, natural flood disasters, and the repercussions of military coups. Tinubu stated, “This administration has remained vigilant in devising solutions to mitigate their impacts and enhance national security.”
Furthermore, Tinubu highlighted that the nation’s defense and security strategy was entering a new era driven by a resolute commitment to confront substantial threats and challenges within the West African subregion. He added, “It will be driven by a resolute commitment to confront the substantial threats and challenges that confront us within the West African subregion.”
An Integrated Approach
President Tinubu emphasized his directive to all heads of defense and security institutions to unite in their efforts to protect the nation’s integrity and well-being. As Chairman of the ECOWAS, Tinubu noted the body’s diligent work to enhance conflict management and development mechanisms in the region, stating, “Forging a path towards greater peace, stability, and progress across West Africa and beyond is not negotiable.”
Economic Well-being amid Challenges
The president also highlighted the government’s efforts to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal, stating that tangible measures were being implemented to alleviate the hardships caused by this decision. Tinubu mentioned various actions, including reducing taxes on strategic manufacturing industries, distributing grains from the national reserve to vulnerable demographics, providing fertilizer and farm inputs, and extending soft loans to small and medium-scale industries.
He reassured the nation, saying, “We stand firmly with our citizens, determined to guide our country towards a path of accelerated economic growth and opportunities, where no one lives on handouts.”
Praising the Nigerian Defence Academy
President Tinubu commended the Nigerian Defence Academy for its immense contribution to national security. He called on the institution to also invest in scientific research, technological innovations, and the development of prototypes and concepts to enhance national security.
NAN
