President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to confronting terrorism and other security challenges threatening Nigeria’s stability, affirming that the nation will ultimately overcome forces seeking to disrupt its peace and unity.
The President gave the assurance while hosting members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies at an interfaith Iftar (breaking of fast) held at the State House in Abuja.
Speaking against the background of the recent terrorist attack on the Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, President Tinubu expressed confidence that Nigeria would surmount the prevailing security challenges confronting the nation.
“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.
“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,” the President said.
“He acknowledged the sacrifices being 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,” President Tinubu said.
He emphasised that the welfare of members of the armed forces 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 priority in our decisions,” the President said.
President Tinubu further acknowledged the challenges faced by the military, including the shortage of accommodation and other operational constraints, promising that the government would continue to address them.
Reflecting on the nation’s ongoing economic reforms, the President acknowledged that his administration inherited considerable economic headwinds upon assuming office, but expressed confidence that the most difficult phase of the transition has now passed.
“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.
President Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of adversity, noting that the nation’s diversity remained a strength rather than a weakness.
Earlier in his remarks, the Nigerian leader described the interfaith breaking of fast as an expression of national unity, observing that the convergence of the Ramadan fast and the Christian Lenten season provides a rare moment for collective reflection, tolerance, and harmony among Nigerians.
“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.
The President thanked members of the armed forces and other security agencies for honouring the invitation and for their dedication to the country.
“I stand before you to say thank you for responding to this invitation. Interfaith peace is very laudable, that we can celebrate together and break bread together,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu reaffirmed the loyalty of the Armed Forces to the President and pledged their 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 President Tinubu’s support in the procurement of military equipment and the provision of better 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,” the Army chief said.
Shaibu pledged that the military would remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation’s democratic system.
“We wish to reaffirm our unalloyed loyalty to Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” he said.
“We also remain the defenders of our democracy and will do everything it takes to safeguard it.”
The Army chief further expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support for the armed forces in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
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.
Also at the event were Vice President Kashim Shettima; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defense, Gen. Christopher Musa; Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle; other members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC); and other senior security and administration officials.