President Bola Tinubu says securing the nation is one battle he would not lose.
Tinubu said this on Monday at the 2023 annual chief of army staff conference in Borno, according to a statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser to the president on media and publicity.
The president said he will continue to work assiduously and provide the military with the necessary support to keep trouble of the nation at bay.
He commended the army for their commitment and urged them to remain non-partisan but vigilant in upholding democratic principles.
“The professional conduct of the Armed Forces during the elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States underscores your role as a guardian of our constitutional order and democracy precepts,” Tinubu said.
“In this regard, the Nigerian army must remain completely non-partisan but vigilantly pro-democracy. We also note with great satisfaction the many civilian-military projects across the country, some of which will be commissioned during this Conference.
“These projects not only bring the military and civilian population into closer affinity and mutual understanding, they also serve the practical purpose of tangibly improving the living conditions of the people.”
Also speaking at the event, Mohammed Badaru, minister of defence, said Tinubu’s new approach to empowering the force and enhancing intra-military collaboration has led to a substantial increase in the morale of the armed forces.
“Mr. President, you are a man of your word. Your Renewed Hope agenda assured Nigerians of progress in the fight against insecurity,” the minister said.
“The men of the armed forces are more committed than ever before. They see the progress they are recording. They know the damage they are inflicting on our enemies. They have high morale. Our enemies do not because of your leadership. Thank you, Mr. President.”
In his remarks, Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff, said the ongoing military operations across the country have significantly weakened criminal elements.