The Nigerian Army has raised concerns over the presence of foreign jihadists around Nigeria’s borders, assuring citizens that troops remain on high alert and are fully prepared to counter any emerging security threats.
Speaking during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Port Harcourt, the Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, said the military is closely monitoring the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel region and has already observed signs of foreign terrorist movements near Nigeria’s borders.
“It is also worth noting that the Nigerian Army is not oblivious of the dire security situations in neighboring countries across the Sahel region.”
He disclosed that the military had detected what he described as the “footprints” of foreign jihadists but reassured Nigerians that the Army remains capable of responding to any threat.
“We have already noticed the footprints of foreign jihadists across our borders. However, I would like to assure us all that the Nigerian Army is alert and equal to the task.”
Oluyede expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army would overcome the current security challenges, drawing parallels with previous generations of soldiers who successfully confronted major conflicts, including the two World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and the ECOMOG peacekeeping missions.
“Like our forebears who successfully dealt with the challenges of their generations in the two World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and the ECOMOG missions, the Nigerian Army of today will certainly prevail in confronting the security challenges of our generation.”
Reaffirming the Army’s constitutional responsibilities, the Chief of Army Staff said the force remains committed to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, protecting national interests, supporting civil authorities when required, and participating in peace support operations.
“Our mission therefore remains unchanged, to win all land battles in defense of the territorial integrity of Nigeria, protect her national interest, and accomplish tasks in aid to civil authority.”