President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s determination to defeat terrorism and other threats to Nigeria’s stability, declaring that the country will ultimately overcome forces undermining its peace and unity.
The President gave the assurance on Friday evening while hosting members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to an interfaith breaking of fast at the State House in Abuja.
Speaking against the backdrop of the recent terrorist attack on Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, Tinubu expressed confidence that the nation would prevail over its security challenges.
“We will win. Nigeria will prevail,” the President declared, assuring troops and citizens alike that the government remained committed to restoring peace across the country.
Tinubu said he had already reached out to Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, to express sympathy and solidarity with the people of the state following the attack.
“My sympathy goes to the Vice President and the entire country, and the people of Borno for the incident that occurred. I made a call to Zulum to share the pain with him,” he said.
The President acknowledged the sacrifices made by military personnel and other security operatives in the fight against terrorism and banditry, assuring them that their efforts would not be in vain.
“This nation will always be grateful to you. Many times you are without your families and face attacks from bandits and terrorists, yet you continue to serve and protect our sovereignty,” he said.
Tinubu further assured members of the armed forces that the welfare of service personnel and their families would remain a priority for his administration.
“I assure you we will do everything possible to ensure that you have no regrets. The welfare of you and your families will always take first priority in our decisions,” he said.
The President also acknowledged operational challenges faced by the military, including accommodation shortages and other constraints, promising that the government would continue to address them.
Reflecting on the country’s economic reforms, Tinubu admitted that his administration encountered significant turbulence when it assumed office but expressed optimism that the situation had improved.
“When we first started, we had a rough ride and ran into very serious turbulence. But I can say today that we have stabilised the economy. We are out of the dark tunnel. We are seeing the daylight and bright light ahead of us,” he said.
The President urged Nigerians to remain united despite challenges, stressing that the country’s diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
He also described the interfaith breaking of fast as a symbol of national unity, noting that the coincidence of the Muslim Ramadan fast and the Christian Lenten season provides a unique opportunity for reflection and harmony.
“This period reflects the complexity and diversity of our nation, but God has ordained that these seasons coincide for self-integration and peace,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, reaffirmed the loyalty of the Armed Forces to the President and pledged continued commitment to defending Nigeria’s democracy.
Shaibu thanked the President for approving the upward review of salaries and allowances for members of the armed forces, including personnel of the Brigade of Guards.
He also acknowledged Tinubu’s support in the procurement of military equipment and the provision of improved accommodation for troops.
“These approvals will go a long way in enhancing our operational efficiency and I assure you that they are well received by members of the armed forces,” he said.
The Army chief further pledged that the military would remain steadfast in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic system.
“We wish to reaffirm our unalloyed loyalty to Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” Shaibu said.
“We also remain the defenders of our democracy and will do everything it takes to safeguard it.”
The interfaith breaking of fast brought together senior government officials, service chiefs, members of the armed forces, and representatives of other security agencies as part of efforts to strengthen unity and morale among personnel engaged in protecting the nation.
Deji Elumoye
