President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong directive to the Nigerian military to intensify its campaign against Boko Haram terrorists, bandits, separatists, and other criminal groups threatening national security.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration held in Kaduna State, Tinubu declared that the time to “crush the criminals is now.”

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the armed forces, the president pledged increased investment in modern equipment, intelligence gathering, and human capital development to enhance military effectiveness.

He called on troops to continue serving with professionalism, courage, discipline, and honour, in line with the Constitution and international standards.

 “The Nigerian Army has never been just a force of arms. It has been a symbol of unity and duty… They have fought not for conquest, but for peace,” Tinubu said, paying tribute to the military’s history and sacrifices.

He also honoured fallen heroes and commended the troops for their role in defending democracy, urging them to remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation's territorial integrity and peace.

The event was also attended by former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, whom Tinubu referenced while recalling the Army’s historic role in ending the civil war and maintaining Nigeria’s unity.