BREAKING; Soldiers won’t heed calls to topple Tinubu’s Govt says Chief of Army Staff
BREAKING; Soldiers won’t heed calls to topple Tinubu’s Govt says Chief of Army Staff
The Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has on Tuesday firmly rejected calls for a military coup, asserting that the Nigerian Army will not undermine the democratically elected government to serve certain interests.
Addressing attendees at the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Lagbaja emphasized that the push for military intervention predominantly comes from younger Nigerians who have not experienced Nigeria’s extensive history of military rule.
Lagbaja underscored the Army’s commitment to preserving the “new prestige” it has cultivated over the past 25 years by upholding democratic governance. “The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used as a tool to disrupt democratic processes and elevate some interests to power. Having endured significant scrutiny from past military regimes, we are dedicated to maintaining the respect we have earned through our support of secure and democratic rule,” he stated.
He also highlighted recent support from both national and state governments, including the acquisition of two BELL UH-1 Huey Helicopters equipped with advanced technology for a variety of missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, logistics, and medical evacuation.
Lagbaja affirmed the Army’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of widows and families of fallen soldiers. He addressed the recent nationwide hunger protests, recognizing them as a crucial reminder that food and social security issues are integral to national security. Although the immediate crisis has subsided, Lagbaja acknowledged that food security was a significant factor in the unrest.
In response, the Army is reviewing its agricultural policies and has intensified its security efforts to protect farmers in key agricultural regions of the North East, North West, and North Central zones. This initiative aims to safeguard the country’s food supply chain from disruptions that could impact national stability.
“The Nigerian Army will, in the coming days, review its agricultural policy to better position the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited to significantly boost crop production so that the Army can release grains into the market at highly subsidized rate in support of government efforts.
“Furthermore, the Army Headquarters is reviewing some proposals for partnerships with Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government and reputable private organizations on how best to collaborate to resolve food crisis in the country,” he added.
Lagbaja announced that the Nigerian Army has recently enhanced its operational capabilities by acquiring additional combat resources, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, advanced rifles, and ammunition. These new assets are aimed at bolstering security and operational effectiveness throughout the country.
Opening the conference, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno expressed his satisfaction with the event being hosted in the state. He praised the Chief of Army Staff for the “purposeful direction” he has provided, which has strengthened the Army’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties.
Governor Eno also pledged the state government’s full support for the establishment of the proposed Army base in Akwa Ibom and other logistical needs, demonstrating the state’s commitment to supporting the Army’s efforts.
