President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to crush terrorists, bandits, insurgents and separatists threatening the nation’s peace and unity.  

  Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), yesterday, in Kaduna, the President stated: “to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this with absolute clarity: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorisation and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation. You have my confidence, my support, and my prayers.”

  Tinubu warned that terrorism, insurgency, banditry and separatist agitations were no longer mere irritants but grave existential threats.

  “These evils do not discriminate — they destroy churches and mosques alike, and orphan children without asking their tribe or faith,” he said.

  He pledged that under his watch, the welfare, morale and operational strength of the armed forces would remain top priority, with sustained investment in modern weapons, intelligence and manpower to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty stays intact.

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

  The President paid tributes to fallen heroes and wounded soldiers, vowing that their sacrifices will never be in vain.

  “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 said.

  Tinubu also saluted the families of serving and fallen soldiers, praising the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) for sustaining morale on the home front.