President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the military and other security agencies to remain resolute in tackling terrorists, bandits and other criminals terrorising Nigeria.

“However, until the issue of insecurity is surmounted, much more is still desired from the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” stated the president. “Consequently, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies must always remain resolute in the face of the country’s insecurity challenges.”

Mr Buhari said this at the regimental dinner organised in his honour on Tuesday night in Abuja as part of the activities lined up for the May 29 inauguration ceremony.

The president, while acknowledging the military’s efforts in the ongoing war against terrorism, banditry and oil theft, among other challenges, said the military must not rest on its laurels until the criminal elements are defeated.

Mr Buhari, a former military dictator, said the regimental dinner organised for him to mark the end of his tenure as a democratically-elected president was significant because it presented him with another opportunity to reflect positively on the armed forces’ past, present, and future.

“Please permit me to appreciate our military for their loyalty, hard work, dedication, and selfless service to our beloved nation,” stated Mt Buhari. “I am fully aware of all your sacrifices and commitments in tackling the myriad of security challenges and your contributions to the successful elections in our country.”

Mr Buhari also promised that “before winding down,” his regime “will never relent to widen the support of the military to enable them” to perform their constitutional responsibilities effectively.

“The ultimate sacrifice of our fallen heroes will never be in vain, and (may) the almighty God continue to grant them eternal rest,” he said.

(NAN)