Eid-al-Fitr: Armed Forces Focused on Securing Nigeria, Say Service Chiefs as IG Orders Tight Security Nationwide

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, has called on the Armed Forces of Nigeria to remain committed to the security of the nation.
This came as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, declared that securing the nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, remained a duty the armed forces was bound to perform and service “we must render to our fatherland”.
He spoke as the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, ordered tight security nationwide as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-fitri just as the Department of State Security (DSS)
called on the citizenry to be security conscious as well as report suspicious activities to security and law enforcement organisations.
A statement personally signed by the defence chief called on troops deployed across all theaters of operation to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic, and courageous in their service to our great nation.
“I call upon our troops deployed across all theaters of operation to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic, and courageous in their service to our great nation.
“Your sacrifices and unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria are deeply appreciated. We recognize the sacrifices you make, sometimes at great personal cost, to ensure the peace and security of our nation”, he said.
“I take this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians to extend their love and support to our Armed Forces and to remember in their prayers our fallen comrades.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria belong to all Nigerians, and our collective determination to address the challenges of insecurity is crucial for our national development”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, declared that securing the nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, remained a duty the armed forces was bound to perform and service “we must render to our fatherland”.
“For our colleagues who, due to operational commitments, are unable to join their family members and loved ones to celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitr, be assured that the Nation appreciates your sacrifice and service and I salute your sense of duty and dedication. “Securing our beloved nation against all forms of threats, internal and external, is a duty we are constitutionally bound to perform and service we must render to our fatherland.
“I hope you continue to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan and espouse the acts of charity, kindness, and patience, among other virtues emphasised during the fasting season”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, ordered tight security nationwide as Muslims across the country.
He said the directive was in the bid to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
“The IGP reaffirms ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety nationwide as Commissioners of Police (CPs) and tactical commanders across all states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), were tasked to intensify security measures in anticipation of the Eid-el-Fitr festivities”, he said in a statement.
Similarly, the IG directed supervisory AIGs and their respective CPs to ensure the thorough deployment of officers and resources to critical locations, particularly Eid prayer grounds and recreational centers, in order to instill confidence among citizens and fun seekers alike.
“Furthermore, the IGP has charged officers and men of the Force to conduct comprehensive assessments of areas prone to threats, implement rigorous stop-and-search procedures, conduct raids on identified black spots, and employ other anti-crime strategies aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring public safety throughout the country.
“While emphasing the importance of professionalism, the IGP has cautioned deployed personnel to remain vigilant and respect citizens’ fundamental rights as they fulfill their duties with utmost decorum and alertness”, it said.
The DSS statement reads: “The Department of State Services (DSS) wishes to celebrate the Eid-El-Fitr festival with the Muslim Ummah. It heartily congratulates them on the peaceful completion of the Ramadan, which is a period of fasting, prayer and reflection for the Muslim faithful worldwide. While joining them to thank Allah for the opportunity to complete this auspicious obligation, the Service shares with them, the core values of the festival which include love, mercy and compassion.
“These morals resonate deeply with the ideals of peace, harmony and generosity that are fundamental to our country’s collective good. As this joyous occasion is being commemorated, the Service urges everyone to celebrate responsibly, exemplify the true essence of the event and strive for common humanity based on harmonious coexistence, good conscience and neighbourliness.
“The DSS admonishes citizens to carry forward the spirit of charity, empathy and unity beyond the festivities and abstain from any acts that are capable of undermining these principles.
“Similarly, everyone is advised to be security conscious as well as report suspicious activities to security and law enforcement organisations. On its part, the Service will sustain collaboration with sister security agencies and indeed other stakeholders to ensure hitch free celebrations.