Protect democracy, shun politics, Tinubu tells Army

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, said the Army must remain non-partisan and “vigilantly pro-democracy” as it discharges its duty of maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

This was as he promised to work assiduously and provide the military with the necessary support to keep the troublers of the nation at bay.

“In this regard, the Nigerian Army must remain completely non-partisan but vigilantly pro-democracy,” Tinubu said at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2023 in Maiduguri, Borno State.

His comment comes barely 24 hours after he kicked against unconstitutional change of government in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Niger at the 64th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of the Economic Community of West African States in Abuja.

The President also stated that he had no intention of relenting or resting on his laurels in securing Nigeria, declaring that he would win the battle to keep Nigeria safe.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngalale, revealed this in a statement he signed on Monday titled ‘President Tinubu: The battle to keep Nigeria secure is one I will not lose.’

Citing the professional conduct of the Armed Forces during the elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states, the President asked the Army to remain non-partisan but vigilant in upholding democratic principles, emphasising their role as a guardian of constitutional order during elections.

He said, “We also note with great satisfaction the many civilian-military projects across the country, some of which will be inaugurated 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.”

Citing the recent procurement of new aircraft as a testament to his resolve to upgrade national defence capability, Tinubu affirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing the ongoing modernisation process within the military, focusing on improving mobility, communications, and offensive striking capabilities.

While expressing the nation’s gratitude for the service and sacrifice of the armed forces, the President recalled his earlier approval of N18bn in Group Life Assurance benefits for families of fallen heroes, even as he pledged continuous government commitment to the welfare of serving personnel and their families.

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, said Tinubu’s new approach to empowering the force and enhancing intra-military collaboration had 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 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,” the Minister stated.

On his part, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, informed the President that ongoing military operations in different parts of the country had significantly weakened criminal elements while checkmating farmer-herders crises in various parts of the country.

The Army Chief said, “Notwithstanding these achievements, we recognise the importance of continuous evaluation and this conference will be instrumental in formulating long-term strategies to bolster our ability to carry out our constitutional responsibility in the year 2024.”