Monday Reuben, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a significant move to bolster the morale and operational efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to prioritizing the welfare of officers and men of the armed forces. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of a new Defence Complex and the inauguration of an army barracks named after him in Abuja on Thursday, the President pledged unwavering support for the military.
The events, held shortly after the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, underscore the President's focus on strengthening national security and honoring the sacrifices of service members.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the armed forces under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, commending their dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace and development.
“This ceremony marks the start of a construction project and the foundation of a renewed commitment to our military and the values we hold dear as a democracy,” the President stated. “As your Commander-in-Chief, I pledge to support our troops and their families. Under our Renewed Hope Administration, I reaffirm my commitment to building a well-equipped and truly professional military that embodies our nation's pride.”
He lauded the recent strides in local production of military equipment, highlighting Tactical Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) assembled in Nigeria. These vehicles, he said, symbolize the advancements in Nigeria’s defence capabilities and will boost operational efficiency while enhancing the economy.
On the new Defence Complex, President Tinubu noted its significance as a hub of excellence and a national monument: “This edifice, when completed, will not only stand as a centre of loyalty but a national monument that every Nigerian would be proud of. It will be a hub of excellence, re-energising able leaders who are committed to the safety of our citizens.”
He assured that the first phase of the complex would be completed within the lifetime of his administration.
President Tinubu called on Nigerians to unite and work together towards a brighter future. He emphasized the importance of supporting the armed forces, especially those who have sacrificed their lives or sustained injuries for the peace and security of Nigeria.
Speaking earlier, General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, explained that the current Garki headquarters, initially designed as a temporary office, had become inadequate. The new Defence Complex, he said, would symbolize excellence and modernization in the armed forces.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for his continued support, pledging loyalty and commitment on behalf of the armed forces.
The event witnessed the presence of key government and military officials, including Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas, former Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan, Minister of Defence Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris Malagi, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, and service chiefs.
The events in Abuja reaffirm the Tinubu administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian armed forces through infrastructure development, welfare improvement, and technological advancements. These measures signal a renewed hope for national security and development, with a clear focus on empowering the military to effectively address the nation’s security challenges.
