Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, has said that no officer or soldier on lawful duty will be punished as a result of the altercation that ensued between soldiers and the Minister of the FCT, Barr Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking on the occasion of the ministerial briefing to flag off the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and remembrance day celebration at the National Defence College, Badaru said, “We will always protect officers and our armed forces personnel on Lawful Duty. Any officer on Lawful Duty will be protected if he is doing his job lawfully and if he does it well.”
Recall that after the altercation between the minister and the officer who led soldiers to safeguard a landed property in Abuba, the coalition of retired veterans of the Nigerian military vowed that their members would mobilise and occupy the Ministry of the FCT in Abuja if the officer who said he was acting on a lawful order was punished in any way.
On the security challenges confronting the country, the minister said, “Under the leadership and direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Defence has achieved significant operational milestones in safeguarding national security and protecting territorial integrity through improved synergy among the Services and security agencies.
“Within the tenure of this administration, our troops have neutralised over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arrested more than 17,000 and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages.
‘Over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered.
“These coordinated operations have led to the dismantling of key terrorist enclaves, the neutralisation of notorious bandit commanders and the restoration of peace to hundreds of communities, allowing displaced persons to return home.
“Our commitment to securing Nigeria’s vital economic assets is equally evident in the South-South, where over 1,900 illegal refining sites were destroyed.
“These relentless efforts have not only reduced crude oil theft but have also reduced the occurrence of maritime-related crimes.
“These expanding operational capabilities are underpinned by significant strategic modernisation.
“Let me be clear that despite these successes, the remnants of criminal elements still pose threats to our peace and security.
“Accordingly, the President has consistently directed the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces to sustain ongoing operations and intensify efforts until all remaining threats are eliminated.
“However, the task is not for the government alone. This is why we are strengthening a whole-of-society approach that brings together government, civil society, traditional institutions, academia, and the private sector in a common front against insecurity.
“The signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act in 2023 marks a milestone in indigenous defence production, positioning Nigeria as an emerging hub for defence technology in the region.
“Coupled with the procurement of advanced platforms, including Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and naval vessels, this modernisation enhances our operational readiness and will eventually reduce our reliance on imports.
“Regionally and internationally, Nigeria has deepened cooperation through active participation in high-level forums and maintained crucial peacekeeping deployments in countries like Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and South Sudan.
“But the ultimate strength of any military resides in its personnel, not just its platforms. Therefore, the welfare of our troops remains a non-negotiable priority, anchoring the “Soldier First” initiative.
“This administration continues to implement a series of welfare measures to ensure that our personnel serve under dignified and supportive conditions.
“Initiatives include the upward review of the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) and significant investments in modernising barracks facilities to provide safe and comfortable living environments.
Continuing, he said, “This year, we are introducing an innovative platform called the ‘Thank A Soldier’ QR Code. This digital initiative enables Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalised messages of appreciation and encouragement to our serving troops and pay tributes to the fallen.
“The “Thank A Soldier’ QR Code, which was launched, aligns with our drive to modernise engagement through digital inclusion and youth participation.
“This annual celebration is more than a ceremonial occasion; it is a solemn national pledge of remembrance and gratitude. It honours the unwavering sacrifices of our soldiers, sailors and airmen who have steadfastly defended the unity and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
“Furthermore, it allows us to recognise their vital contributions to peacekeeping, humanitarian and nation-building efforts across Africa and globally, under the auspices of the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“It is against this sanctified backdrop of continuous service that we must address the present realities. While we acknowledge that myriad security challenges continue to face our nation, it is crucial to place on record the exceptional skill, courage and professionalism demonstrated by our Armed Forces.
“Accordingly, we choose to celebrate their concrete achievements and the positive impact of their efforts in restoring stability, safeguarding the lives of citizens and strengthening the essential bond between the military and the Nigerian people.
“The theme of the 2026 AFCRD, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” powerfully captures the spirit of service, heroism and patriotism that guides our military.
” It reminds every Nigerian that the liberty, relative peace, and stability we enjoy are secured daily through the courage and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, including those who serve, those who have served and especially those who paid the supreme price.
“We have focused equally on the critical areas of healthcare and the dignity of service. This includes the establishment of the Invictus Care Centre, a top-tier medical facility for wounded personnel and the upgrade of several military hospitals.
“Moreover, the payment of ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and the introduction of the Debarment Allowance are other strategic steps designed to reinforce the dignity of veterans and prevent the misuse of their valuable skills against national interests.”
“Beyond active service, we are strengthening support for our esteemed veterans through digital innovation, including the establishment of a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre. This initiative, which will be formally launched as part of the AFCRD 2026 activities, will provide a central platform for efficient service delivery, improved response time to grievances and highly targeted welfare support.
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