Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, has firmly stated that the military will not respond to demands for the ousting of President Bola Tinubu’s government. This assertion was made during the opening of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday.
Lagbaja pointed out that the calls for military intervention primarily come from younger Nigerians who have not lived through Nigeria’s lengthy period of military governance. He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has cultivated a new level of respect over the last 25 years by supporting democratic governance and will not allow itself to be manipulated into undermining that democracy for the benefit of specific interests.
“The Nigerian Army will not permit itself to be used to undemocratically elevate certain interests to power. Having endured significant criticism due to past military interventions, the Nigerian Army is committed to preserving the hard-earned reputation it has developed over the last quarter-century, ensuring security and unity,” he stated.
Lagbaja also acknowledged the backing the military has received from the government, highlighting the recent acquisition of two Bell UH-1 Huey helicopters outfitted with state-of-the-art sensors and capabilities. He reaffirmed the commitment to the welfare of widows and families of fallen soldiers, which remains a priority.
Addressing the recent nationwide hunger protests, the Army Chief noted that these events serve as a reminder that food insecurity and social issues can escalate into threats to physical security. He assured that the Army is dedicated to reassessing its agricultural policies and providing security support for farmers in vital agricultural regions.
Additionally, Lagbaja disclosed that the Nigerian Army has procured various combat assets, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, rifles, and ammunition, to enhance operational effectiveness and security throughout the nation.
