Army Chief Lagbaja has confirmed that the military will not respond to calls to overthrow Tinubu’s government. Learn more about his statement.
On Tuesday, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff stated that the military will not entertain any suggestions to topple a democratically elected government for personal gain.
Lagbaja spoke at the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He noted that young Nigerians who have not experienced Nigeria’s extensive military rule are primarily advocating for a military takeover.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army was determined to protect the “new prestige” it had worked hard to establish over the last 25 years by ensuring a peaceful and democratic regime.
the Nigerian Army is committed to upholding democratic principles and will not be manipulated for the benefit of select groups.”
The Nigerian Army has no intention of losing the new reputation it has worked hard to establish for itself over the past 25 years.
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“He stated that it was safe and unified.”
According to Lagbaja, the Nigerian Army and its affiliated services are benefiting from government support on both national and sub-national levels. This is exemplified by their recent acquisition of two BELL UH-1 Huey Helicopters which have enhanced sensors and enablers that can perform multiple functions such as logistics, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, surveillance among others.
He further stated that the well-being of widows and other family members of deceased heroes is still being prioritized.
The Army Chief responded to the aftermath of the recent nationwide hunger protest, admitting that it had been a wake-up call for them as an Armed Force. He emphasized that their focus shouldn’t only be on physical security and national defense but also food and social security issues. The realization was made that these concerns could escalate into significant threats to physical safety in society.
He stated that even though the situation giving rise to the protest appeared resolved, the Nigerian Army recognizes that food security was one of the contributing factors.
The Chief of Army Staff promised that the military is committed to delving into the evaluation of its farming strategy.
He added that the Nigerian Army is presently offering security protection to farmers in key farming communities located in the North East, North West and North Central regions. The aim of this initiative is to avoid adverse effects on the country’s food supply chain that could result from a disruption of food production activities within these areas.
In the upcoming days, the Nigerian Army intends to reassess its agricultural strategy in order to enhance operations at Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited. The aim is an increase in crop output with a view of releasing grains into the market at significantly subsidized rates aligned with government initiatives.
In addition, he stated that the Army Headquarters is currently assessing a number of proposals for potential partnerships with government ministries, departments and agencies as well as reputable private organizations. These collaborations aim to effectively address the food crisis in Nigeria.
According to Lagbaja, the Nigerian Army has obtained additional combat aids such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, firearms, and munitions in order to bolster their operations and improve security throughout the nation.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno expressed delight that the conference was conducted in his state and applauded the COAS for leading Nigerian Army towards fulfilling its constitutional obligation while officially opening the event.
Eno is equally confident that the state government will provide all necessary assistance in setting up the proposed Army base and other related logistics.
