President Bola Tinubu has commended the Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army for strengthening security around the Presidential Villa and improving safety across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2025.

Mr Tinubu, represented by the minister of defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, gave the commendation on Saturday in Abuja at the Guards Brigade 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA).

He said the brigade’s sustained clearance operations and efforts to restore peace in adjoining communities had contributed significantly to the improved security currently enjoyed in the FCT and its environs.

The president described WASA as more than a cultural showcase, noting that it also provided an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, cohesion and dedication displayed by officers and soldiers of the Brigade throughout the year.

According to him, culture remains a vital anchor of national identity, reminding Nigerians of their history, struggles and achievements, while preparing them for the future.

Mr Tinubu expressed confidence that the Guards Brigade would continue to rise to the demands of its strategic responsibilities, urging officers and soldiers to sustain professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty.

He also commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies for their relentless efforts against insurgents, terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements, which he said were yielding visible improvements nationwide.

The president charged troops not to rest on their oars but to remain proactive in line with the Army chain of command, assuring them of the support and confidence of the federal government and the Nigerian people.

He praised the commander, Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, as well as officers, soldiers and their families for their hard work and sacrifice, expressing optimism that the brigade was well positioned to meet security challenges in 2026.

Earlier, Mr Onasanya reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the brigade to the security of the seat of power and the protection of key national assets.

He said the brigade had recorded significant operational achievements in the past year through sustained day-and-night domination of its area of responsibility, intelligence-led operations and effective collaboration with other security agencies in the FCT.

According to him, Guards Brigade troops played critical roles in securing the presidency, safeguarding strategic installations and maintaining stability within the FCT and its environs, in line with the mandate of the Nigerian Army.

He stated that the successes recorded were a result of professionalism, intensive training and the high morale of officers and soldiers, in spite of the demanding nature of their assignments, which often kept them away from their families for extended periods.

The event featured cultural display by the various ethnic groups, presentation of awards to deserving personnel and Battalion that performed outstandingly in the course of operation and training ing activities in 2025.

(NAN)