The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has praised the Service Chiefs for what he characterised as “two years of strategic recalibration within the country’s security architecture.”
He noted that this initiative has led to discernible and measurable enhancements in national security across the nation.
During a high-level conference with media executives and other stakeholders held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister acknowledged the appreciation of President Tinubu for the unwavering patriotism and dedication to duty demonstrated by the senior military leadership.
The gathering marked the second anniversary of the appointment of the current Service Chiefs.
“Let me begin by conveying the commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) to our Service Chiefs for their unshakable commitment, discipline, and patriotism in the discharge of their duties,” he said.
Idris noted that the sacrifices of the military frequently go above and beyond the call of duty.”
Highlighting the critical gains made under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs, the Minister, who chaired the occasion, said: “What we have witnessed is not just a containment of these threats but a visible reclaiming of our national space, physically, psychologically, and operationally. Nigerians can now attest with confidence that our highways are significantly more secure than they were a few years ago.”
Idris further commended the Armed Forces for their successes across all theatres of operation, saying: “From the successful degradation of Boko Haram and ISWAP cells in the North East, to the decisive operations against bandit enclaves in the North West and North Central; from improved naval patrols that have drastically cut down crude oil theft and the destruction of illegal refineries; to the relentless air interdictions that have disrupted the logistics and mobility of criminal elements — the scorecard is notonly impressive, it is reassuring.”
According to the Minister, responsible journalism is critical in nation-building, urging the media to support the efforts of the Armed Forces by reporting progress and amplifying achievements.
“The media is expected to report not only what has gone wrong, but what is being done right. Highlight the sacrifice of our troops. Tell the story of progress. Balance criticism with context. That is the true calling of responsible journalism,” Idris stated.
The Minister hailed the Service Chiefs for their patriotism and results-driven leadership.
“You have restored hope, saved lives, defended our sovereignty, and above all, reminded us all of what it means to serve,” Idris said.
He urged stakeholders, especially the media, to “take note of the progress made and amplify it,” describing it as a “vital morale booster for gallant officers and men in uniform, who work tirelessly, day and night, to secure our nation and create an environment where all Nigerians can live, work, and thrive.”
He assured the Tinubu administration’s commitment to backing the military not just with equipment, but also with strategic policies that bolster intelligence gathering, inter-agency cooperation, and welfare.