President Bola Tinubu has called on the country’s armed forces to remain disciplined, united and loyal to democratic rule, describing the military as a key pillar of national unity and stability.
The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the armed forces as part of efforts to secure lasting peace and stability across the country.
The message was delivered on his behalf by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day gala and awards ceremony.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I charge you to remain true to the values of discipline, loyalty and unity that define you as service personnel,” the president said. “In a diverse nation such as ours, you remain the enduring symbol of our shared strength.”
Mr Tinubu urged the military to remain loyal to Nigeria’s constitution and democratic institutions, saying their role as guardians of national unity was as important as their duty to defend the country’s borders.
He said the welfare of troops was closely linked to national security, assuring personnel of improved equipment, better training and enhanced living conditions.
He added that the government would continue to match their sacrifices with concrete support.Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, the president said their sacrifices were permanently etched in the nation’s memory, stressing that remembrance was a national duty rather than a ceremonial obligation.
He also praised serving personnel for their courage and resilience, noting that recent military operations had helped restore security and confidence in communities affected by violence.Mr Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by military families, describing their support as a vital part of Nigeria’s defence efforts.
The president announced two new nationwide initiative the Thank-A-Soldier Electronic Wall and the My Nigerian Hero Campaign aimed at giving citizens an opportunity to honour serving personnel and veterans.Despite progress recorded under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he said the government would not relent until all Nigerians could live and work in safety and dignity.
The event featured awards presented to distinguished serving and retired officers, including the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, former army chief Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (retd), and former army spokesperson Brigadier General Sani Usman (retd), among others.
