President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Speaking on Thursday at the groundbreaking ceremony of a new Defence Complex and the inauguration of an army barracks named in his honour in Abuja, Tinubu expressed gratitude to the military for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation. He commended the efforts of the armed forces under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
“This ceremony marks not just the beginning of a construction project but a renewed commitment to our military and the democratic values we uphold,” Tinubu stated. “Today, we open a new chapter in our nation’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our people. As your Commander-in-Chief, I pledge my unwavering support to our troops and their families.”
Reaffirming his vision for a well-equipped and professional military, the President lauded the resilience and dedication of Nigeria’s armed forces in defending the country against threats to national security.
On the importance of the new Defence Complex, Tinubu noted that the facility would serve as a national monument and a centre of excellence, reflecting the country’s appreciation for its military.
“As we break ground on this Armed Forces Complex, let it stand as a symbol of our nation’s respect for your service and our commitment to equipping you for success,” he said. “Upon completion, this edifice will not only be a centre of loyalty but also a source of national pride.”
The President also underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s domestic defence capabilities through local production of military equipment. He highlighted the role of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the Nigerian Army’s Command Engineering Depot, and private companies such as EPAIL and ProForce in advancing the country’s military-industrial complex.
“With great pride, I announce the assembly of the Tactical Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) produced in Nigeria,” Tinubu declared. “These vehicles represent a significant milestone in our defence sector, enhancing both our armed forces’ operational capacity and our national economy.”
The President urged Nigerians to work together for a brighter future, noting that the groundbreaking event, which followed the recent Armed Forces Remembrance Day, served as an enduring tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives for the country’s peace and security. He assured that the first phase of the Defence Complex would be completed within his administration’s tenure.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, emphasized the need for a modern facility, stating that the current headquarters in Garki, originally intended as a temporary office, had become inadequate. He described the new complex as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the modernization of Nigeria’s armed forces.
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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to the President for his continued support, reaffirming the military’s loyalty and commitment to national security.
The event was attended by key government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau (representing the Senate President), Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas, former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris Malagi, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. Also present were Service Chiefs and top military officials.
The groundbreaking ceremony and barracks inauguration mark another step in the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and improve the welfare of the armed forces.
