Tinubu Orders Military to Crush Terrorists, Bandits and Secessionists Threatening Nigeria’s Unity

President Tinubu urges military to confront terrorists, bandits, and separatists without fear or delay.

He pledges full support and honors fallen heroes at 2025 Army Day Celebration in Kaduna.

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies to act decisively against terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and separatist groups threatening the peace and unity of the country.

Delivering the President’s message during the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at Murtala Square in Kaduna on Sunday, Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed the federal government’s full support for the military to act without hesitation.

“To the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now,” Tinubu said in his address. “You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation. You are my confidence, my support, and my prayers.”

The President described terrorism, banditry, insurgency, and separatist violence as existential threats that must be tackled with urgency and unity. He warned that these challenges are not minor disruptions but grave dangers to Nigeria’s survival.

“These evils do not discriminate,” Tinubu said. “They destroy churches and mosques alike, orphaning children without asking their tribe or faith.”

He pledged the federal government’s continued investment in modern weapons, surveillance intelligence, manpower, and welfare, stressing that national security would remain a top priority.

“We are not oblivious to the challenges confronting our nation. But let it be said plainly: our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising,” he said. “I assure you that this administration stands firmly with you on that path.”

President Tinubu paid a solemn tribute to fallen soldiers and wounded heroes, promising that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

“Many of our finest have fallen in the line of duty. Some now lie in silence beneath the soil of a grateful nation, others carry the wounds of oath as living reminders of sacrifices made in our name. Their blood will not be shed in vain; their memory will endure through generations,” he stated.

The President also praised the resilience and contributions of the families of servicemen and women, particularly through the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association, for their critical role in sustaining morale on the home front.

“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay,” Tinubu declared. “Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and long live our Armed Forces.”

In his remarks, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, reflected on the journey of the Nigerian Army since its establishment in 1863. He noted that while the Army has evolved in structure and capability, its core identity remains rooted in service and sacrifice.

He stated that this year’s celebration, themed “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army Transformation Drive,” focused on prioritizing troop welfare and professional excellence.

“The most enduring legacy of the Nigerian Army is the indomitable spirit, valour, and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian soldier,” Oluyede said. “We cannot build a great army without well-motivated and well-trained soldiers. Their willpower, morale, and sense of purpose are the bedrock of national security.”

He assured citizens that the Army would continue working closely with the Navy, Air Force, and other security services to prevent criminal groups from establishing safe havens anywhere in Nigeria.

The grand ceremony featured elaborate military parades, tactical drills, and displays of advanced weaponry, drawing enthusiastic applause from guests and the public.

Among the dignitaries present were former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, and former Army Chiefs including Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya. Others in attendance included federal lawmakers, royal fathers, diplomats, and thousands of Kaduna residents.