Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has urged military officers to defeat the ideologies that promote mindless killings and anarchy in the country. He added that they should support the Federal Government’s effort in the war emerging security challenges confronting the nation.
He said this yesterday during the passing out parade of military cadets of the 64 Regular Course and Direct Short Service Course 44 at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), in Kaduna.
Osinbajo, who was the reviewing officer of the parade, said: “Nigeria is confronted by enemies whose identities and motivations are unknown.
“Technology has advanced to the stage whereby people can now learn production of explosive devices on the internet.
“The military must be more proactive in defeating ideologies that promote mindless killings and anarchy under the guise of Boko Haram or Biafra.
“I urge you to be prepared to play your roles in tackling the prevailing security challenges confronting the nation.
“I charge you to exhibit high sense of professionalism, patriotism, and loyalty which the Nigerian Defence Academy is known for, in the course of your military career.
“Let me also warn you to always operate by the rule of engagement and in accordance with Nigeria’s constitution.
“I must again emphasise the fact that the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria remain sacrosanct, in accordance with our constitution.
“We therefore all have a responsibility to eschew hateful, divisive speech and conduct, and every other thing that might undermine our national unity and cohesiveness.
“The subordination of the military to civil authority has been a cherished age-long practice that has promoted military professionalism in all parts of the world. It is a tradition that must be sustained and strengthened in our country.
“To achieve this, all our men and women in uniform must continually re-dedicate themselves to the oath they have sworn to and subject themselves to democratic and constituted authority.
“We must subsume personal interests to the overall national aspirations of peace, unity, and justice.”
A total of 689 Cadets of 64 Regular Course comprising of the Army, Navy, Air Force was commissioned as officers at the ceremony with service chiefs, state governors and other dignitaries as guests.
While congratulating the graduating cadets on their enlistment as military officers, Osinbajo commended the NDA for churning out highly disciplined military officers in the past, who have contributed immensely to the security of the nation.
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