President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of officers and personnel of the Nigerian armed forces, describing it as paramount to national security and development.
Speaking on Thursday at the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Defence Complex and the inauguration of a newly constructed army barracks named after him in Abuja, Tinubu lauded the sacrifices and dedication of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s peace and stability.
“This event marks not only the beginning of a significant construction project but also a renewed pledge to strengthen our military and the democratic values we hold dear,” Tinubu said.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I remain steadfast in my commitment to supporting our troops and their families. Under our Renewed Hope Administration, we are building a well-equipped and professional military that embodies our national pride.”
The President expressed his gratitude to the armed forces, commending the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and his team.
“Your courage and resilience protect our freedoms and uphold the principles upon which this nation stands,” Tinubu stated.
Highlighting the significance of the new Defence Complex, Tinubu described it as a national symbol of respect and admiration for the military’s service.
“This facility will not only represent loyalty but also stand as a monument of excellence that reaffirms our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian,” he said.
The President also underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s domestic defence production capabilities.
“I am proud to announce that the development of a military-industrial complex in Nigeria is yielding tangible results,” he revealed.
“Through research and development by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria and private entities like EPAIL and ProForce, we have assembled Tactical Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) locally. These vehicles will not only boost our armed forces’ efficiency but also contribute to our economic growth.”
Tinubu called on Nigerians to unite in building a brighter future, noting the symbolic significance of the ceremony, which follows the recent Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
He promised that the first phase of the Defence Complex would be completed within his administration’s tenure.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, highlighted the need for a modern facility, citing the inadequacy of the Garki headquarters, originally intended as a temporary office.
He said the new complex would represent the armed forces’ dedication to excellence and modernisation.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for his unwavering support and assured him of the military’s loyalty and commitment.
Dignitaries at the event included 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, and Service Chiefs, among other high-ranking military and government officials.
Tinubu’s bold declaration and actions at the event underscore his administration’s resolve to bolster the Nigerian armed forces and secure the nation’s future.