President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to establishing a well-equipped and professional army. He called on the Nigerian Army to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law-abiding citizens.
Speaking at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) on Saturday at the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Rukuba, Bassa Local Government Area, President Tinubu, represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, emphasized the importance of safety and security for all Nigerians.
He underscored the crucial role the Nigerian Army has played from the colonial era to the present day in protecting the nation. “The Nigerian Army has been instrumental in maintaining the security and development of Nigeria. Its members have sacrificed their lives for the peace and unity of our nation,” President Tinubu stated. He acknowledged the growing security challenges over the past decade and commended the army’s efforts in addressing these issues nationwide.
President Tinubu announced the approval of group life assurance payments for fallen soldiers and the acquisition of new attack helicopters and other essential equipment. “We are dedicated to providing you with everything needed to fulfil your constitutional responsibilities,” he affirmed.
The President expressed pride in the army’s display of equipment and commitment, urging the troops to continue their professional conduct in operations against violent groups. He also encouraged collaboration with other security agencies and the public to achieve national security goals.
Earlier, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja welcomed the President and distinguished guests, emphasizing the importance of community support and collaboration with the military. “Our experience in ongoing operations nationwide highlights the need for a whole-of-society approach to security efforts,” General Lagbaja remarked. He outlined the army’s recent activities, including public speaking engagements, a literary competition, free medical services, and the commissioning of quick-impact projects in host communities.
General Lagbaja also presented Commendation Awards to officers and soldiers for exemplary acts and behaviour.
The Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving welfare and administration for troops was also highlighted, with initiatives like the Affordable Housing for All (AHOOAS) scheme. General Lagbaja assured that the army remains focused on eliminating threats to national security and pledged continued adherence to professionalism and ethical conduct.
The event concluded with military displays, showcasing specialized armoured vehicles, paratroopers, K9 units, and physical training experts. Two newly acquired helicopters were unveiled and commissioned for use by President Tinubu, accompanied by COAS Lagbaja, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, other service chiefs, and senior military officers.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 marked the 161st anniversary of the Nigerian Army, with activities themed “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges Within a Joint Environment.”
The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) is pleased to announce plans to honour its past Governing Council Members and Director General in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the Association.
This initiative underscores the Association’s deep appreciation for the visionary leadership, dedication, and selfless service of those who have steered the affairs of the NIA over the years. Their efforts have laid a solid
foundation for the Association’s achievements and strengthened its role as the collective voice of the insurance industry.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday,30 April 2026, at the Insurers House, 42 Saka Tinubu Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, under the theme, “Service as the Cornerstone of Leadership and Institutional Legacy.”
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Chairman of the NIA, Mr. Kunle Ahmed, noted that honouring past Governing Council Members and Director Generals is not only a mark of respect but also a way of preserving the Association’s rich legacy.
He said that their guidance and commitment have been instrumental in shaping policies, fostering industry collaboration, and promoting public confidence in insurance as a tool for national development.
Kunle emphasized that the structures laid down by the past leaders, the values they upheld, and the sacrifices they made continue to resonate in the Association’s present achievements.
He noted: “Institutions are built over time, but their true strength lies in the people who devote themselves in service.
“This event is our way of pausing to honour those whose leadership and sacrifices created the pathway we now walk. Their legacy is not confined to history—it lives on in every milestone we celebrate today.”
The NIA Chairman further stated that by celebrating the Association’s past leaders, the NIA preserves its history, reinforces its values, and set a clear benchmark for future leadership.
According to him, the progress the Association enjoy today is firmly anchored in the foresight and dedication of its past leaders.
“Without question, they remain the bedrock of the NIA’s enduring relevance and success, he said.”
The ceremony will bring together industry stakeholders, regulators, and partners to celebrate these distinguished leaders and reaffirm the Association’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The NIA looks forward to this memorable occasion as it continues to build on the foundations laid by its past leaders while charting new paths for the future of insurance in Nigeria.
A magistrates’ court in Jos on Tuesday sentenced a 40-year-old painter, Dominic Maitala, to two years’ imprisonment for stealing a car.
The magistrate, Irene Pati, sentenced the convict, who pleaded guilty to the charge.
Ms Pati, however, gave the convict the option of a N100,000 fine and ordered him to pay N7 million in compensation and, in default, to serve an additional year in prison.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Ibrahim Gokwat, told the court that the complainant, Peter Walar, reported the case on March 17 at the Area Command Metro Police Station.
Mr Gokwat said the convict was told to watch the car at the garage, but he took the car away and claimed he was drunk and did not know who stole the car from his house, where he had parked it overnight.