July 5th, 2012
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Azubuike Ihejirika, on Tuesday in Jaji, Kaduna State, said that Nigerians should forget about any talk that the country would break up as the army would continue to fight to keep it together.
Ihejirika said this at the parley with retired officers and reunion of Army Infantry Corps as part of activities marking the 2012 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADACEL).
He said the army had been at the forefront of all efforts to keep the country together since independence, stressing that when people talk about Nigeria breaking up, they must have forgotten that they have an army that paid dearly to keep the country together.
According to the army chief, the army was ready to pay the supreme sacrifice to continue to keep the country as one united entity.
“So, we should forget about any talk of Nigeria breaking up. The army will not agree to that and I see it as a loose talk from those who don’t have the interest of this country at heart,” he said.
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Ihejirika said that in response to present and future security challenges, the army would establish additional units in line with ORBAT 2010.
He further said that it is a known fact that veterans help to shape policies on national security and assist the military in having a fair share of the budget.
He commended the retired officers who had been striving to, within their meagre resources, keep the associations of retired army, navy and air force personnel going.
According to him, the fact that the retired officers honoured the invitation of the army shows the love they have for the profession.
“I have great expectations that the outcome of this discussion will yield fruitful results. I, therefore, look forward to the buildup of the benefits of this gathering.
“I urge all present to discuss frankly as whatever is said will not be used against you.”
Ihejirika further disclosed that the army would soon lay a foundation for a 50-room hotel in Jaji.
Earlier, Major-General Mohammed Isah, Commander, Army infantry Corp said the corp has officers and men that could compete favourably with those in other countries. –Tribune
