The Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 came to an end yesterday (Saturday) in Plateau state.
Minister of Defence (state), Dr. Bello Matawalle celebrated the Nigerian Army’s 2024 anniversary where he commended the Army’s patriotism and sacrifices, noting their critical roles in Nigeria’s security and development.
Matawalle who started this on Saturday at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau state while addressing a league of Journalists that besieged him at the grand finale of the 2024 Army Day Celebration also acknowledged the Army’s efforts in addressing security challenges, including their deployment in all states.
The Minister for Defence (state) noted that the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is working hard to equip the Army to enable them to perform their constitutional role of protecting the citizens against any territorial aggression.
“President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s support to the Nigeria Army, approving payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and purchase of attack helicopters and combat equipment”, Minister Matawalle stated.
At the Event, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by Mohammed Budaru, Minister of Defence expressed pride in the Army’s efficiency and dexterity, evident in their parade and display. The President emphasized the need for the Army to evolve with the changing world, adapting to new security challenges.
“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I am told, that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brainstorming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that, so you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges. As the world changes, Our security architecture must also change to meet up with the new threats”.
The President urged the Army to sustain progress, conduct themselves professionally, and work closely with sister services and security agencies.
He encouraged them to protect the country and uphold what is right and just. Tinubu praised the Army’s history and commitment, representing the nation’s pride.
Earlier, lieutenant general Toareed Lagbaja, the chief of Army Staff highlighted the Army’s achievements in containing banditry in the North-West and Boko Haram terrorism in the North-East.
He also mentioned the Army’s successes in curbing farmers-herders conflict in the North-Central and gaining the upper hand against criminal groups in the South East, South West, and South-South.
The event showcased the Army’s capabilities and President Tinubu’s appreciation for their service.
Minister Bello Matawalle charged the Army to sustain the progress made so far to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding Nigerians
