FG promises to tackle military equipment shortage, poor funding…

President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, promised to address the shortfalls in funding and equipment hindering the operational efficiency of the Armed Forces in Nigeria.

He made this promise during the grand finale of the celebration of the 160th establishment of the Nigerian Army held at the Maj. Gen. J.M. Inienger Sports Complex, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, disclosed that the Presidency was aware of issues of inadequate equipment and insufficient funding among other factors affecting the operational efficiency of the armed forces.

The President further disclosed that the Nigerian Army remained one of the strongest pillars of hope for the Nigerian citizenry, noting that despite her involvement in the governance of the country in the past, it had since 1999 subordinated itself to civilian rule and remained a highly professional force with high standing both regionally and internationally.

Tinubu, therefore, acknowledged the sacrifices made by several gallant officers and soldiers who had lost their lives and those who sustained various degrees of injuries, including cases of permanent disabilities.

The President urged the Nigerian Army to always be guided by international best practices, especially extant humanitarian laws and rules of engagement while conducting operations.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, pledged the Nigerian Army’s unflinching support for democratic governance in Nigeria.