By Nkechi Eze
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong directive to the Nigerian Armed Forces to take decisive and uncompromising action against all elements threatening the unity and territorial integrity of the nation. The President’s order was delivered at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), held on Saturday, July 5, at the Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna.
Represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu emphasized that terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatist agitation pose existential threats that must be eradicated for Nigeria to thrive. “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,” he declared.
The President reiterated his administration’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces, pledging to provide modern weaponry, actionable intelligence, and improved welfare packages for security personnel. He paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes and wounded personnel, assuring that their sacrifices will never be forgotten. “Their blood will not be shed in vain,” he said.
President Tinubu also acknowledged the critical role of military families, commending their strength and resilience. He recognized the contributions of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) in supporting personnel and sustaining morale on the home front.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay,” the President declared, urging unity and collective resolve to preserve the nation’s stability.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism and national service. He noted that the Army, established in 1863, remains a bedrock of Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty. “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,” Lt. Gen. Oluyede stated.
The COAS highlighted the Nigerian Army’s ongoing transformation, emphasizing the centrality of troop welfare, enhanced operational capability, and strategic partnerships with the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies in addressing the country’s security challenges.
The grand finale of NADCEL 2025 featured a vibrant showcase of the Nigerian Army’s capabilities, including a ceremonial parade, tactical demonstrations, displays of cutting-edge military hardware, and operational simulations across various corps and units.
The high-profile event drew an array of 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 Mohammed Matawalle; Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa; and former Chiefs of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya (rtd). Traditional rulers, diplomats, lawmakers, and other distinguished guests from across Nigeria were also in attendance.
NADCEL 2025 not only celebrated the legacy and resilience of the Nigerian Army but also served as a resolute statement of the government’s commitment to national security and the enduring partnership between the Armed Forces and the Nigerian people.
