President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Nigerian security personnel for their dedication and sacrifices in the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime across the country.
In a message signed by the president and addressed to members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, on monday he acknowledged the critical role they play in protecting lives and maintaining national security despite the challenges associated with their duties.
According to Tinubu, security personnel remain the country’s first line of defence against forces seeking to destabilise communities and threaten the safety of citizens.
“You stand as a shield between innocent citizens and those who seek to destroy the peace, safety, and dignity of our communities,” the President said.
He noted that military and security operatives continue to serve in difficult environments, including forests, waterways, roads, and remote operational bases, often under demanding conditions.
“In the forests, on the roads, at forward operating bases, in the air, creeks, and across difficult terrains, you carry the burden of national protection so that millions of Nigerians can sleep, work, worship, farm, trade, and raise their children in hope,” he stated.
Tinubu acknowledged the hardships and sacrifices that have accompanied the fight against insecurity, describing the commitment of security personnel as worthy of national recognition.
“This fight has not been easy. It has come with pain, pressure, and sacrifice. But your courage has remained firm. Your service is acknowledged. Your sacrifice is honoured,” he said.
The President extended his appreciation beyond the military to other security and intelligence agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), intelligence operatives, and local security formations.
He also paid tribute to the families of security personnel, recognising the emotional and personal sacrifices they make while supporting loved ones serving on the front lines.
“Many of you have endured long absences, anxious nights, and the emotional cost of duty. Nigeria remembers that sacrifice, too,” Tinubu said.
The President further honoured security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their contributions as invaluable to the nation’s survival and stability.
“We honour those who have paid the supreme price in defence of our country. Their names may not always trend, but their courage lives on in rescued communities, protected families, and the survival of the nation they served,” he added.
Tinubu urged citizens to actively support security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations against criminal elements.
“The fight against terror is not only a military operation. It is a national duty. Citizens must support our security forces by providing timely, useful information,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity, the President declared that Nigeria would not bow to intimidation by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists.
“Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists to define who we are as a people,” he stated.
The President concluded by expressing gratitude to all security personnel for their service and prayed for their safety as they continue to carry out their responsibilities across the country.