By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
PRESIDENT BOLA Tinubu has issued a firm directive to Nigeria’s military and security forces during a charged visit to Katsina State, ordering the elimination of terrorists and their foreign collaborators “without delay.”
Addressing troops on the frontlines of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief vowed to end the prolonged insurgency with a renewed strategy that includes advanced weaponry, improved welfare, and direct government backing.
“You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight,” President Tinubu declared, his voice echoing across the parade grounds as troops stood in salute. “Let the enemies of Nigeria know — their time is up.”
The President’s two-day visit to Katsina, his first official tour of the state since taking office, was strategically designed to raise morale among frontline personnel amid a resurgence of violence across Nigeria’s northern states. His visit comes in the wake of intensified insurgent attacks in the North-East and renewed killings in Plateau and Benue states, sparking public anxiety and fierce opposition criticism during his absence from the country.
Unlike previous presidential tours accompanied by top brass, Tinubu chose a lean entourage, opting to address the soldiers directly. He made it clear that the government recognises the dire challenges faced by the armed forces and is taking steps to overhaul their capacity to dominate the battlefield.
“We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced equipment, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support — not only to defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary,” he assured.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to soldiers’ welfare, promising timely payment of allowances, improved housing, comprehensive health insurance, and support for military families.
“Your welfare is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity upheld,” he said. “Housing programmes, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay.”
The President’s remarks echoed sentiments that have long reverberated through military circles. Poor welfare conditions and outdated equipment have remained a source of frustration, with reports of discontent surfacing — including a protest by officers over squalid barracks conditions in Sokoto.
Despite a decade of growing defence budgets, many frontline troops still contend with logistical shortfalls. In the 2025 national budget, Tinubu allocated an additional ₦200 billion specifically for barracks construction — a move aimed at tackling the infrastructure deficit crippling troop morale.
Standing before the soldiers under a scorching northern sun, Tinubu described the war on terror as more than a fight over territory. “It is a battle for the soul of Nigeria,” he said.
“Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralise, every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children.”
He lauded their selfless service and sacrifice. “You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honour and duty.
You face danger not for wealth or recognition, but for the love of our dear country. That is the highest form of patriotism.”
Presidency insiders described the visit as a deeply personal mission for the President — an effort to galvanise troops beyond the rhetoric of Abuja.
“He’s been looking for opportunities to charge the troops in the frontlines and boost morale,” one aide said. “I can tell you that he achieved that today.”
Concluding his speech, Tinubu vowed that Nigeria would never surrender to terror.
“This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your will to stand, resist, fight, and triumph. Nigeria depends on you. I am with you today, tomorrow, and always. Stay strong. Stay focused.”
SPEECH BY PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR, TO NIGERIAN ARMED FORCES TROOPS DURING HIS OFFICIAL VISIT TO FRONTLINE TROOPS IN KATSINA ON 2 MAY 2025
Protocol:
My Gallant Officers, Brave Soldiers, and Defenders of Our Great Nation,
HOW IS THE MORALE?
ARE WE GOOD TO GO?
ARE WE MOTIVATED?
I stand before you today not just as your President and Commander-in-Chief, but as a fellow patriot, deeply humbled by your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the peace, security, and sovereignty of our great nation. You are the shield of Nigeria, the brave sons and daughters who stand between our people and the forces of terror. Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralise, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children.
The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria. Your resilience in the face of danger inspires the entire nation. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honour and duty. You face danger not for wealth or recognition, but for the love of our dear country. That, my brothers and sisters in uniform, is the highest form of patriotism. You are the silent guardians of our democracy, and I salute you.
Let me be clear: the Federal Government stands firmly behind you. As your Commander-in-Chief, I am fully aware of the challenges you face. We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced equipment, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support not only to defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary.
But it is not just about weapons. Your welfare is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your allowances are paid promptly, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity upheld. Housing programmess, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay.
My dear soldiers, this is a defining moment in our history. The threats of terrorism, banditry, and insurgency have persisted for too long. Nigerians are counting on us and on you to end this menace and reclaim every inch of our territory.
Let me hear you loudly: Are you ready? Are you committed to ending this insecurity once and for all?
Let your resolve echo through every valley and forest. Let the enemies of Nigeria know—their time is up. This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your will to stand, resist, fight, and triumph. As your President, I will match your courage with action, investment, and unwavering support.
To those who seek to destabilise our nation, be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents—hear this: Nigeria will not bow.
Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery. You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight. With your valour and discipline, peace shall prevail. Stand tall. Be proud. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you—today, tomorrow, and always.
Stay strong. Stay focused. For God and country.
May God bless you. May God bless the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live the Armed Forces! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria! Thank you.
