President Tinubu vows to prioritize Nigerian armed forces’ welfare

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of officers and personnel of the Nigerian armed forces, describing it as a key priority.

The President made this pledge on Thursday during the groundbreaking ceremony of a new Defence Complex and the inauguration of an army barracks named after him in Abuja.

Expressing gratitude to the armed forces, President Tinubu praised their dedication under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

“This ceremony marks the beginning of a construction project and the foundation of a renewed commitment to our military and the values we hold dear as a democracy. On this occasion, we open a new chapter in our nation’s dedication to the safety and security of our people.

“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.

“I commend the remarkable efforts of our armed forces under the leadership of the CDS, General CG Musa, who, alongside the Service Chiefs and personnel, stand guard against the forces that threaten our peace and development.

L-R: Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru; Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, during the Ground Breaking Ceremony of the New Armed Forces Complex, held at the Behind Lungi Barracks Asokoro Abuja yesterday

“Your dedication, courage, and resilience protect our freedoms and uphold the principles upon which our nation was founded,” he stated.

On the importance of the Defence Complex, President Tinubu noted: “As we break the ground on this Armed Forces Complex, let it symbolise our nation’s respect and admiration for your unwavering service and our dedication to providing the resources you need to function better.

“This edifice, when completed, will not only stand as a centre of loyalty but also as a national monument that every Nigerian would be proud of. It will be a hub of excellence, inspiring leaders committed to the safety of our citizens.”

President Tinubu highlighted the need for locally produced military equipment to enhance domestic defence capabilities.

“I am proud to share that our efforts in developing a military-industrial complex have started yielding results. These initiatives, driven by research and development by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the Command Engineering Depot of the Nigerian Army, and private entities like EPAIL and ProForce, have bolstered our domestic defence capabilities.

“With great pride, I announce the assembly of the Tactical Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) produced in Nigeria. These vehicles will enhance our armed forces’ operational efficiency and contribute to our economy,” he said.

The President called on Nigerians to unite and work toward a brighter future, stating that the groundbreaking ceremony, held shortly after the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, is a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives or were wounded for Nigeria’s peace and security. He assured that the first phase of the complex would be completed during his administration.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, underscored the need for a modern facility for the armed forces, stating that the Garki headquarters, initially designed as a temporary office, had become inadequate for operations.

He described the new Defence Complex as a beacon of excellence and a symbol of the Nigerian armed forces’ modernisation and dedication.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, thanked the President for his support and assured him of the army’s loyalty and commitment to the nation.

The event was attended by key government and military officials, including Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas, Senator Ahmad Lawan, Minister of Defence Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris Malagi, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, Service Chiefs, and other top military officers.

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