-by our correspondent.
President Muhammadu Buhari, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts at swiftly restoring law and order in various states of the federation during the large-scale destruction that ensued in the wake of the #ENDSARS protests.
While commissioning the Army Cyber Warfare Headquarters in Abuja, the president warned that any form of hooliganism in disguise of lawful and peaceful protests will be dealt with decisively to ensure peace and stability in the country.
President Buhari reiterated Government’s commitment to the rights of citizens to embark on peaceful protests responsibly and in accordance with the laws of the land, the President recounted that the #ENDSARS protests were sadly hijacked by hooligans to cause wanton damage to lives and property in many cities across the country.
He described the Year 2020 as a very challenging one, citing the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative impact on almost every aspect of national life.
”The Army’s support of Civil Authorities in the management of the COVID – 19 Pandemic is a case in point, also the peaceful elections conducted in Edo and Ondo States would not have been achieved without the high level of professionalism displayed by all security agencies, including the Army,” President Buhari said.
The President commended the Army for its unwavering commitment towards curtailing the activities of insurgents, armed bandits, kidnappers, cattle rustlers and other violent crimes through ongoing exercises and operations in different parts of the country. ”I charge you all to sustain these efforts until the full restoration of peace and security in the nation is achieved,” the President told members of the armed forces.
President Buhari also used the occasion to pay tribute to men and women in uniform who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the defense and security of the nation, commiserating with their families, comrades and friends.
”As we pray for the repose of their souls, we must strengthen our collective resolve to address those issues that will make every part of our country a safe and secure place to live and carry out our normal business,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Defense, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi, appreciated the President for always approving funds for the operations of the military across the country, assuring that all resources will be judiciously utilised.
For his part, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, noted that the Nigeria Army was well positioned to confront all security challenges, which includes cyber threats. “We have intensify our civil military relations effort and adopted the best global practices in the conduct of our operations in line with principle of law.” He said.
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