By Balarabe Oshiafi
In a bid to enhance national security and maintain peace across the country, the Commander in Chief (C-in-C) of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Armed Forces to double their efforts towards sustainable peace, security and development.
According to a release signed by the Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwackukwu and made available to Expressday,the President made the call on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2023 themed, “Personnel Motivation for Effective Operational Performance in a joint Environment” held at Command Guest House, Maiduguri, Borno State.
President Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role of the NA in restoring peace across the country and troops’ apolitical conduct during the recent elections in some states.
The C-in-C commended the Armed Forces for their heroic efforts in combatting insurgency, terrorism and other criminal activities that have threatened peace and stability in Nigeria.
He stressed the importance of continued dedication and unwavering commitment in tackling security challenges to ensure a safe and secure environment for all citizens.
According to the statement: “The President remarked that the conference represents a valuable tradition symbolizing Nigerian Army’s unyielding devotions to national security.
“He noted that the conference will provide a constructive platform for NA to draw lessons from its operations, and training exercises of the past to enhance its operations. Stressing the vital role of the military to national security, President Tinubu said the fate of the country lies with the Armed Forces and called on the NA not to relent in tackling insecurity head-on, including adversaries whose intent is to subdue Nigerians and truncate democracy.
“The President reaffirmed that his administration’s proactive approach and determination to tackle security concerns will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
President Tinubu noted that the procurement of new platforms for the Armed Forces has tremendously improved its capacity and combat efficiency to discharge its constitutional roles.
“He commended the Service Chiefs and heads of security and response agencies for improved synergy in accomplishing his directives.
“He assured that his administration will continue to cater for the families of deceased personnel, who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria, through provision of welfare schemes and educational scholarship programmes.
“In his remark, the Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum extolled the tireless efforts of the NA and other security agencies towards ensuring peace and security in Borno State and Nigeria at large. He stated that the presence of President Tinubu at the COAS annual conference underscores the significance of the event particularly considering the historical and strategic importance of Borno State in the fight against Insurgents.
“The Governor noted that the conference came at a critical moment, aligning with the progress made by the Armed Forces in tackling insecurity, adding that the state is at the crucial junction in efforts to implementing the Borno restoration plan, aiming to end the decade long humanitarian disasters caused by Boko Haram Insurgency.
“While appreciating the sacrifices of the NA, Professor Zulum urged service chiefs and formation commanders to maintain cordial working relationship with other security agencies in the State
“The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar described the conference as an avenue to assess the preparedness and operational readiness of the NA in the discharge of its constitutional roles. He noted that deliberations during the conference will generate strategies that will enhance peace and stability as well as facilitate in charting a better course for the NA in the coming year.”