Tinubu pledges continued support for Nigerian Army at annual conference

By Zainab Uzomah

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army, pledging sustained support for the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the armed forces.

The president gave the assurance at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025, which began in Lagos on Monday. He was represented at the event by Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

Mr Tinubu paid tribute to serving and retired senior military officers, describing their sacrifices and leadership as central to the evolution of the Nigerian Army. He said the presence of former service chiefs and elder statesmen underscored the institution’s enduring heritage and professional ethos.

The president praised officers and soldiers for placing national duty above personal comfort, noting that their role in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity would remain part of the country’s history. He said the annual conference provided an opportunity for reflection and strategic review, especially as the military confronts shifting security threats at home and abroad.

The Defence Minister, retired General Christopher Musa, said the conference was a key forum for assessing the Army’s operational posture and readiness. He stressed the need for joint operations, inter-agency cooperation and a whole-of-society approach to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, urging commanders to translate discussions into concrete results.

In his address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, thanked the president for what he described as consistent political and strategic backing for the Army, particularly in personnel welfare, equipment modernisation and training. He also acknowledged the support of the National Assembly, saying it had improved the Army’s readiness across operational theatres.

General Shaibu said the Nigerian Army remained at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency and banditry, adding that reforms were under way to build a more professional and technology-driven force capable of responding to both conventional and asymmetric threats.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who also spoke at the event, said security was essential for development and praised the Army’s role in maintaining peace and democratic stability in the state.

The conference, attended by senior government officials, service chiefs, retired military leaders, diplomats and security agency heads, is expected to focus on operational and strategic issues aimed at enhancing the Army’s capacity to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.