President Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerian troops and other security personnel on the front lines of the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, describing them as the nation’s shield against forces threatening peace and security.
In a post on his official X handle on Monday, the President praised the sacrifices and resilience of members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies working to protect lives and property across the country.
“You stand as a shield between innocent citizens and those who seek to destroy the peace, safety, and dignity of our communities,” Tinubu said.
He noted that security operatives continue to shoulder the burden of national protection across various terrains and operational environments.
“In the forests, on the roads, at forward operating bases, in the air, creeks, and across difficult terrains, you carry the burden of national protection so that millions of Nigerians can sleep, work, worship, farm, trade, and raise their children in hope,” he stated.
Acknowledging the challenges confronting security personnel, the President said the fight against terrorism and other forms of insecurity has demanded enormous sacrifice and resilience.
“This fight has not been easy. It has come with pain, pressure, and sacrifice. But your courage has remained firm. Your service is acknowledged. Your sacrifice is honoured. Your country does not take you for granted.”
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Tinubu extended appreciation to personnel of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), intelligence agencies, local security formations and other stakeholders contributing to national security.
He also paid tribute to the families of security personnel, recognising the emotional burden and prolonged periods of separation they endure in support of their loved ones serving the nation.
“I also acknowledge the families behind the uniform. Many of you have endured long absences, anxious nights, and the emotional cost of duty. Nigeria remembers that sacrifice, too.”
The President further honoured officers and personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifices as vital to the protection of communities and the preservation of the nation.
He urged Nigerians to support security agencies with timely and useful information, stressing that the fight against terrorism requires collective effort.
“The fight against terror is not only a military operation. It is a national duty. Citizens must support our security forces by providing timely, useful information. When you see something, say something. When you know something, report it.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ending insecurity, Tinubu declared that Nigeria would not succumb to fear or allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and violent extremists to define the country’s identity.
“Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists to define who we are as a people. Their violence is not our identity. Their hatred does not represent Nigerians of any faith, creed, or community.”
The President concluded by thanking frontline security personnel for their courage, vigilance and service, while praying for their protection as they continue to defend the country.
Tinubu’s remarks come amid renewed security concerns in several parts of the country, with incidents of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence continuing to pose challenges for security agencies.
In recent months, several cases of mass abductions have been recorded, including the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, attacks on communities by armed groups, and the abduction of travellers along major highways.
