Jutha Gupah, Maiduguri
President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the Federal Government has remained committed to end Boko Haram crisis to ensure the security of people’s lives and property in the nation. Buhari made the pledge on Wednesday; while declaring open the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference, 2018; at the Command Guest House, Maiduguri. He said that officers and soldiers who are fighting against Boko Haram insurgency in Northeast deserve all attention of country’s leadership to secure people’s lives across the country. His words: “I am determined to ensure that every citizen feels safe and secure in all parts of this nation. “To achieve this, the security agencies must rise to the challenge and curb threats to security in our country. “I am aware that in the recent months and in recent days there have been some operational losses in the Northern part of Borno State, particularly in the Nigerien border communities of Jilli, Arege and Metele.” He assured the participants of the conference with theme; “Optimising the Operational Efficiency of the Nigerian Army Towards Safeguarding Democracy and National Security in Nigeria,” that no efforts be spared in providing necessary support to complete the task. According to him, the troops should keep up the good work of securing the country and its citizens. “We remain committed to ending this crisis in the Northeast and making the entire area safe for all,” he pledged. He said that he was painfully aware that some gallant officers and soldiers have paid the supreme price in the course of these anti-terrorist operations in Metele community. Speaking on 44 fallen heroes, he said: “While we remember them and mourn with their loved ones, I must also convey the deep gratitude of the Government and people of Nigeria to the late soldiers and their families for their heroic sacrifices. “Our thoughts and prayers are also with all other victims of Boko Haram’s atrocities and their families. “I will be visiting some of our injured troops in hospitals and also talk to others at their bases to assure them of our continued support.” He said that the Boko Haram fight, is a must win war, by encouraging troops not to be distracted by whatever speculations. He added that the troops should remain focused and committed to the task of eliminating Boko Haram from the face of earth. According to him, the Army’s commitment to upholding democracy is appropriately captured in the theme of the conference to safeguard democracy and national security. He urged members of the Armed Forces to live up to their responsibilities and remain non-partisan. He said the soldiers must all remain vigilant throughout the electioneering period and alongside other security agencies. This, he said was to prevent every form of violence that could disrupt the process in line with army’s rules of engagement. He however noted that there is drastic reduction in Human Rights allegations against the Army. He therefore urged all the troops to remain committed to the observance of all International Human Rights Laws and Laws of Armed Conflict. While projecting ahead into 2019, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai said: “We envisage in our projections, planning and conduct of exercises and military operations in various parts of the country; similar to the ones conducted throughout this year. “Training should be vigorously pursued at all levels; as our professional calling of duty demands.” He said the military exercises and allocations embarked this year were geared towards creating a peaceful environment for 2019 general elections. According to him, the projections for the army next year, will surpass last year’s achievements.
