President Goodluck Jonathan has announced the establishment of Special Forces Brigade to meet the challenges of new threats in the environment and to align the nation’s armed forces to greater citizen’s protection and national defence.
This, he said, is in furtherance to the national security objectives.
The President spoke today at the Passing Out Parade of Officer Cadets of the 61 Regular Course and Short Service Course 42 (Army) at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.
The President who did not say when and how is the new brigade is going to be established asked the soldiers to give 100 percent loyalty to the nation, emphasizing: “the nation demands 100% loyalty, discipline and absolute dedication to duty. The welfare and safety of the men that will be under your command must therefore be top priority. You must make it clear to all, that we will execute a policy of zero tolerance to indiscipline and corruption.”
President Jonathan stressed that the military his government is building is one that must at all times serve the people and the Nation, “and not the self.”
He described Nigerian military officers as some of the finest in Africa and among the best in the world, adding: “it is a matter of national pride that our pioneer military institution has risen to the challenge of meeting the human resource needs of sister African countries, including the training of officers from the Republic of Liberia, Uganda, Togo, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe. I urge you to exhibit the high standard and professionalism the NDA is noted for, wherever you go.
“I have no doubt that the high quality training you have received here has equipped you sufficiently to contribute to the progress and development of the various services into which you will be commissioned. Let me emphasize that the nation demands of you, exemplary conduct and high professionalism wherever you are deployed.
“You are passing out at a critical moment for our country. Those of you who will be fortunate enough to be deployed to areas of national challenge have a unique opportunity to distinguish yourselves in your chosen career. A career in our armed forces is not the place for the heartless. Our men and women in uniform are bold and brave. They are our pride and our nation will continue to honour and appreciate those who stand strong in defence of our country.”
The President reminded the officers that the tomorrow’s Armed Forces of the Nigerian nation is on their shoulders and that they must eschew any behaviour that could tarnish their honour and dignity as commissioned officers.
“Your commitment and loyalty to the Nation and the Armed Forces must not only be unwavering, it must be outstandingly impeccable.
“In the discharge of your duties, you must do so within the service code and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This administration is committed to due process, equity, merit and the rule of law, because they are the cardinal pillars of a democratic society. As members of our Armed Forces, your constitutional responsibilities are very broad but very clearly defined.
“I urge you therefore to engage only in noble and rewarding actions that will enhance your professionalism and career prospects, as well as maintain and deepen the confidence that the Nigerian people repose in you.
“Let the inspirational and noble words of our National Anthem and National Pledge be ingrained in your inner consciousness at all times. Nigeria expects you to be “faithful, loyal and honest; to serve her with all your strength; and uphold her honour and glory.”
President Jonathan commended the founding fathers who conceived the idea of a world class Academy, providing the best in training, for our specific needs even as he paid due compliments to all those Nigerians as well as non-Nigerians who have contributed in steering the Academy to the position of pride and honour.
He urged them to remain steadfast in their uncommon task of building the Nation, through their assigned roles in defence of the nation’s territorial integrity and the service to the people.
The President seized the opportunity to encourage the soldiers fighting Boko Haram terrorists in some parts of the North, saying: “you are out there, fighting so that the rest of the country can live in peace and thrive. Our Nation will not abandon you. We are standing with you.”
This is even as he directed the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs to institute special honours for the men in uniform who lose their lives in active service. “On no account must our country abandon those who serve her loyally, and paid the supreme price. This honour is to ensure that their memories and service live with us and our Nation forever!”
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