Tinubu Mobilises Military Assets, Unveils New Armoured Vehicles

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to deploy all military and law enforcement assets to protect Nigerians and decisively confront the country’s security challenges.

The President announced the procurement of new mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, additional armoured and patrol vehicles, and the refurbishment of more than 100 Armoured Fighting Vehicles returned to active service, as part of ongoing efforts to modernise the Armed Forces.

Tinubu disclosed this on Monday in Ojuelegba, Lagos State, while declaring open the 2025 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks. He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Emphasising that security remains a cornerstone of his Renewed Hope Agenda, the President said no nation can achieve sustainable progress without safeguarding lives and property.

“This government remains resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.

He noted that the Federal Government is prioritising the modernisation of the Armed Forces through improved training, acquisition of modern equipment and enhanced operational capacity. According to him, recent efforts include the induction of helicopters into Nigerian Army Aviation, training of pilots, and the accelerated procurement of MRAPs, armoured vehicles and patrol platforms to strengthen troop protection and battlefield effectiveness.

“We have also refurbished over one hundred Armoured Fighting Vehicles, now returned to active service. These efforts underscore our commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness,” the President added.

Tinubu further disclosed that the government is expanding partnerships with friendly nations to promote research, innovation and indigenous defence production, with the long-term objective of achieving self-reliance in defence and security.

Commending the Nigerian Army for what he described as notable gains against terrorism and other security threats, the President said reports from various theatres of operation indicate improved outcomes driven by professionalism, courage and effective joint operations with sister services.

“The positive reports emerging from the various theatres of operation are encouraging and stand as testimony to your resilience and professionalism,” he said, assuring the military of the government’s unwavering support in fulfilling its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He also stressed the importance of discipline, professionalism and strict adherence to constitutional order, describing the Armed Forces’ apolitical posture as essential to sustaining public trust and national stability.

The President praised the Army’s civil-military cooperation initiatives across the country, noting that security efforts must go beyond combat operations to winning hearts, restoring dignity and supporting grassroots development.

Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, Tinubu said their sacrifices remain etched in the nation’s memory, pledging continued support for their families and improved welfare for serving personnel.

Earlier, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the Nigerian Army for strengthening civil-military relations in the state and reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to supporting the Army in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.

In his remarks, the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to providing clear policy direction and support to the Nigerian Army. He urged officers and commanders to remain loyal and united, stressing that collective effort is critical to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, in his welcome address, unveiled new welfare packages aimed at boosting morale and improving operational effectiveness. He disclosed that President Tinubu has consistently met the operational needs of the Army since assuming office and urged commanders and personnel on special operations to justify the confidence reposed in them.

Highlights of the event included the unveiling of a biography of the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, presentation of 15 Toyota Hilux vehicles to deserving warrant officers, and the disbursement of insurance cheques to families of fallen soldiers.

The conference was attended by senior military officers, representatives of the National Assembly, former service chiefs, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.