President Muhammadu Buhari has declared the Nigerian Army as a truly professional and responsive force going by the never say die spirit and troops doggedness in attaining set national security goals.
Buhari who was speaking on Saturday at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration at the Ikeja Military Cantonment, Lagos said the Army had remained committed in the past 156 years of its existence even as he expressed confidence that the commitment will continue for another 156 years to come and beyond.
Represented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, he reiterated government’s commitment to continue the fight against insurgency and other forms of criminality in the country.
“You the members of the armed forces have continued to put in your best on behalf of our country with several of your colleagues paying the supreme price in other to keep us safe and secured”
“We acknowledge and appreciate these sacrifices and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed. Our hearts are with their families and loved ones”
Expressing confidence that the Army and indeed the armed forces have been equipped to tackle headlong, the security challenges of the country, Buhari assured that government will not shirk in its responsibility of enduring those that paid the supreme sacrifice did not die in vain.
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In his remarks, the chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai said the Nigerian Army Day Celebrations is an opportunity to remind personnel of the Nigerian Army on combat readiness and showcase its combat capabilities as an army.
It is also aimed at projecting the Nigerian Army as an instrument of national power, unity integration and development adding, “This years celebration has given us the opportunity to honour some of our deserving personnel”
Buratai restated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to continue the fight against insurgency and other forms of insurrection threatening the stability of the nation.
One of the high points of the occasion was the decoration of deserving officers and men of the Nigerian Army who have distinguished themselves in their areas of responsibilities.
Also awarded were ex-service men among whom is a veteran Private Amuda Aluko who is 104 years and fought the Second World War.
Former Head of State Gen Yakubu Gowon, CDS Gen AG Olanisakin, Chief of Air Staff, representatives of the CNS, IGP, DG SSS, Acting Chairman EFCC Mr Ibrahim Magu and Chairman NDLEA attended the event.
The Governor of Kwara State was at the event, Deputy Governor of Lagos State represented the Governor, while Osun State Governor and Head of Civil Service of the Federation were equally ably represented at the occasion.
Others are former CDS and Service Chiefs inclufing General Martin Luther Agwai, Lt Gen Alani Akinrinade, Major Gen Alwali Kazir, Lt. Gen Azubuike Ihejirika and Lt. Gen Kenneth Minimah respectively.
Also present were many senior military officers both serving and retired, Captains of industries, our Royal fathers including Oba of Lagos and other notable personalities.
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