The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has firmly stated that the military will not respond to calls for the overthrow of President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Lagbaja made this announcement on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
He pointed out that the demands for military intervention are primarily coming from young Nigerians who did not live through Nigeria’s extended period of military rule. Lagbaja emphasized that the Nigerian Army has built a new reputation over the last 25 years by supporting safe democratic governance and will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically elevate certain interests to power.
“The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically advance some interests. As the entity that faced the most damage to its image due to previous military interventions in Nigeria, the Nigerian Army is committed to preserving the new prestige it has worked hard to establish over the past 25 years—one that is secure and united,” he said.
Lagbaja highlighted the support the military has received from the government, mentioning the recent acquisition of two Bell UH-1 Huey helicopters equipped with advanced sensors and capabilities. He also reiterated the commitment to the welfare of widows and families of fallen heroes.
The Army Chief also addressed the recent nationwide hunger protests, calling them a critical reminder that food insecurity and social issues can escalate into threats to physical security. He pledged that the Army will review its agricultural policy and provide security support for farmers in key farming communities.
Additionally, Lagbaja disclosed that the Nigerian Army has obtained new combat equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, rifles, and ammunition, to bolster operations and enhance security across the country.
