Commands military to crush insecurity
…..Promises better welfare for troops, hails agricultural revolution as key to ending hunger and insecurity
…Urges state governors to ignore distractions, deliver tangible results
Eshiorameh Sebastian
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that Nigeria will never give in to terrorists and their sponsors,
as he delivered a resolute charge to Nigeria’s armed forces, demanding an end to the scourge of terrorism and banditry while pledging full support for troops on the frontlines.
Speaking firmly to troops on Friday, he promised full government support while warning those behind the violence that their actions will not be tolerated.
Additionally, the President implored state governors to rise above the clamour of critics and concentrate on effecting substantive development across their states.
Speaking to soldiers of the 17 Brigade in Katsina during a two-day working visit, the President framed the security crisis as a pivotal battle for Nigeria’s survival, declaring that the nation would never surrender to fear.
“My dear soldiers, this is a defining moment in our history,” Tinubu said. “The threats of terrorism, banditry, and insurgency have persisted for too long. Nigerians are counting on us, and 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.”
He praised their resilience, describing them as “the shields of Nigeria” standing between civilians and terror. Yet, he also emphasised that victory would not come through weapons alone but through unbreakable will. “Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed,” he said. “This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your determination to stand, resist, fight, and triumph.”
In a direct warning to insurgents and their backers, Tinubu issued a stark message: “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.”
Recognising the toll of prolonged conflict, the President assured troops of improved conditions, listing housing programmes, enhanced insurance, timely allowances, and family support as key priorities.
“Your welfare is my top priority,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity is upheld.” The pledge comes amid longstanding grievances from soldiers over inadequate equipment and delayed payments, which have occasionally sparked protests.
Governors Told to Focus on Results, Not Critics
Later, shifting focus to governance, President Tinubu urged state leaders to ignore “armchair critics” and concentrate on delivering measurable improvements for citizens.
Speaking after commissioning a 24km dual-carriageway and Katsina’s Agricultural Mechanisation Centre—projects executed by Governor Dikko Radda within 18 months—the President framed tangible development as the ultimate rebuttal to detractors.
“Let the people be at the heart of your programmes. Your hard work and concrete achievements will answer any criticism. Ignore distractions—your results will speak for you,” he told governors in attendance, including those from Borno, Benue, Kaduna, Kwara, and Jigawa states.
He singled out Governor Radda for praise, noting Katsina’s strides in agriculture, infrastructure, and security despite relentless bandit attacks. “In just half of your tenure, you have made remarkable progress,” Tinubu said. “You are a patriot, a son, and a progressive mind with honesty.”
Agriculture: The Path to Prosperity
The President identified agriculture as Nigeria’s most viable escape from poverty and insecurity, announcing plans to revitalise the Bank of Agriculture to support farmers. “Hunger and poverty remain the biggest threats to peace,” he said. “Once we liberate ourselves from hunger, we will appreciate peace and harmony.”
He commended Katsina’s N25 billion federal-backed tractor initiative, which has deployed 400 machines to boost productivity, and highlighted irrigation projects aimed at reducing reliance on seasonal rains. “The old style of agriculture is gone,” Tinubu declared. “We must invest in mechanisation and water management. Farming will be our source of prosperity.”
Governor Radda, providing specifics, said 448,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser were distributed last year, with another 400,000 planned for 2025. Additionally, 4,000 irrigation pumps were procured to sustain year-round cultivation.
A Call for Unity and Legacy
Closing his address, the President thanked Katsina’s traditional rulers and past leaders—including ex-Governors Aminu Masari and Ibrahim Shema—for fostering unity. “Katsina is home,” he said warmly. “Home to progress, development, and freedom for good.”
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