By Augustine Akhilomen
President Muhammadu Buhari has charged the Nigerian soldiers to eliminate the dreaded Boko Haram sect terrorizing the North Eastern part of the country.
In a press statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Garba Shehu, on Wednesday, President Buhari called on the Nigerian troops not to relent in their efforts in bringing the sect’s activities to a halt.
Buhari also reassured the Nigerian Army that his administration is doing everything within its power to continue empowering them with necessary equipment, force multipliers and enablers required for them to prevail at the field.
“It is a must win war. I want to encourage our troops not to be distracted by speculations but remain focused and committed to the task of eliminating Boko Haram from the surface of the earth,” the President said while declaring open the 2018 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.
“I want to reassure you that as your Commander-In-Chief, I will do everything within my power to continue empowering you by providing all the necessary equipment, force multipliers and enablers required for you to prevail on the field.
“I also want you to be aware that I am currently looking into measures to improve your entitlements and welfare generally,” he added.
The President commended the efforts and sacrifices of the military in safeguarding the peace, security and territorial integrity of the country.
“As President of the country, I am determined to ensure that every citizen feels safe and secure in all parts of the country. To achieve this, the security agencies must rise to the challenge and curb threats to security in our country.”
“To this end, the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs must work closely together as well as with other security agencies to improve on strategies that will defeat terrorism, militancy and other forms of criminal activities in our country,” he said.
“I have come to pay homage to the gallant soldiers lost by the nation and to console the injured ones in recent terrorist attacks. I urge you to remain focused and win the war,” the President said.
“As we approach the 2019 general elections, I want to urge all members of the Armed Forces to live up to their responsibilities and remain non-partisan. In addition, you must all remain vigilant throughout the electioneering period and alongside other security agencies, prevent every form of violence that could disrupt the process in line with your Rules of Engagement,” he said.