By Lawrence Audu
President Muhammadu Buhari has commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and sacrifices in the protection of the sovereignty of Nigeria. He equally commended all members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their exceptional performances in the various operations across the country.
Buhari gave the commendation Thursday at the Trooping and Presentation of Colours Parade by the Nigerian Army at the Abuja Eagle’s Square.
Speaking further, President Buhari expressed pride over the presentation of the colours to some deserving units who have played vital roles in securing the country through the threats of myriads of security Challenges.
The President said Colours are revered symbols of the identity of a unit, a regiment’s battle honours or those inherited from predecessors and therefore play huge roles in the operational successes of regiments.
“I am also aware that since the last Trooping and Presentation of Colours Parade in 2007, new units have been established and operationalized in line with the increasing operational commitments of our Army. Additionally, existing colours have been extensively involved in multiple operations in various geo-political zones of the country as well as foreign countries, hence deserving of retirement”
“Today’s ceremony is a continuation of our effort to re-invigorate the fighting spirit of our troops through the inculcation of greater pride in their units”
“At the inception of this administration, the nation’s security situation was greatly challenged by the activities of violent non-state actors. Today, I am pleased to specially note that the situation has tremendously improved and I wish to also proudly highlight that we have made remarkable progress in the fight against insurgents, militants, oil bunkerers, kidnappers and other criminal elements in the country” the President stated.
While highlighting some of his administration’s achievements, Buhari noted that aremarkable transformation of the military in the areas of fighting power, training, operations, manpower, remunerations and medical services, in addition to maintenance efficiency, accommodation and expansion of forces has been recorded.
He pointed out that the quantum of platforms inducted into the Army since 2015 had enabled troops to take the battle to the terrorists and criminals, particularly in the North East resulting in the recapture of territories hitherto held by the insurgents.
The creation of the Army Aviation is one of the major aspects of the ongoing expansion process in the Nigerian Army according to the president.
“The renewed vigour for the operationalization of the Army Aviation emanated from a strong desire to effectively tackle contemporary security challenges across the country. This unit, when fully operationalized, will provide rapid deployment, close air support, casualty evacuation, prompt delivery of logistics supply, among other roles.
The President said the country will continue to rely on support from all segments of the Nigerian society in ensuring the maintenance of peace and security in the nation.
A total of 81 regiments of the Nigerian Army participated at the ceremony as 53 colours were retired while 28 new regimental colours were unveiled.
The occasion of the 2023 Nigerian Army Trooping and Presentation of Colours Parade was graced by former heads of state, members of the Federal Executive Council, members of the diplomatic Corps, Senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association, the media and members of the public.