The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to democracy, stating that it will not succumb to calls for the overthrow of President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Lagbaja made this declaration at the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday. He attributed the calls for military intervention to young Nigerians who did not experience the era of Nigeria’s extensive military rule.
The Nigerian Army has built a new prestige over the past 25 years by allowing safe democratic rule, Lagbaja said. He emphasized that the Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically bring certain interests to power.
Lagbaja highlighted the government’s support for the military, citing the recent purchase of two Bell UH-1 Huey helicopters equipped with advanced sensors and enablers. He also mentioned the welfare of widows and family members of fallen heroes, which remains on course.
The Army Chief addressed the recent nationwide hunger protest, stating that it was an eye-opener that food and social security issues can snowball into physical security challenges. He pledged the Army’s resolve to review its agricultural policy and provide security cover for farmers in critical farming communities.
Lagbaja revealed that the Nigerian Army has acquired other combat enablers, such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, rifles, and ammunition, to strengthen operations and security across the country.
