KEY POINTS

• Soldiers on lawful duty will be fully protected.
• Over 13,000 terrorists neutralised under Tinubu’s administration.
• Troop welfare initiatives include housing and healthcare upgrades.

Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, has pledged that no officer or soldier performing a lawful duty will face punishment over the recent altercation involving troops and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike in Abuja.

Speaking at the ministerial briefing to launch the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations at the National Defence College, Badaru said the government would continue to safeguard the rights and integrity of its service members.
“We will always protect officers and personnel on lawful duty,” he said. “Any officer acting within the law will be defended if he performs his job responsibly.”

The remarks follow a clash earlier in the week between soldiers guarding a disputed property and the FCT minister. A coalition of retired military veterans threatened to occupy the FCT Ministry if authorities took action against the officer, insisting the troops acted under lawful orders.

Armed forces see major security breakthroughs

Under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the defence ministry has recorded what Badaru described as “significant operational milestones” in tackling insecurity and restoring peace across the country.

He revealed that troops had neutralised more than 13,000 terrorists, arrested 17,000 suspects, and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages since Tinubu took office. Over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters and their families have surrendered during coordinated military campaigns.

“These operations dismantled major terrorist enclaves and restored peace to hundreds of communities,” Badaru said. “We’ve also destroyed more than 1,900 illegal refining sites in the South-South, curbing crude oil theft and maritime crimes.”

He highlighted the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria Act of 2023 as a turning point for local arms manufacturing and noted new procurements of armoured vehicles, UAVs, and naval vessels aimed at reducing reliance on imports.

Troops’ welfare remains non-negotiable priority

Badaru reaffirmed that the welfare of the armed forces remains central to the government’s agenda. He cited recent reforms including increased ration allowances, upgraded barracks, and improved healthcare services.

“This year, we’re introducing the ‘Thank A Soldier’ QR Code,” he said. “It allows Nigerians to send messages of appreciation to troops and pay tribute to fallen heroes.”

The minister also announced the creation of a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre to enhance post-service support, improve grievance response time, and ensure targeted welfare for retired personnel.

Badaru said these measures embody the theme of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day: “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes.”