The Federal Government of Nigeria on Saturday doused any hope of quick end to the security challenges bedeviling the country as the Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (rtd) said it cannot be effectively tackled in a hurry.
General Magashi, who was represented by Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin, said at the Nigerian Naval College, Onne, Rivers State during the passing out parade and commissioning ceremony of 108 Naval cadets of the Direct Short Service 27 that “there are no quick fixes to effectively combat security challenges bedeviling our dear nation.”
Magashi praised the Nigerian Navy for spearheading the fight against piracy, militancy and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region, adding that the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent civil unrest in the country has further exposed the delicate nature of human security.
According to him, “I am most delighted to be in your midst this morning as the reviewing officer of this passing out parrade in honour of 108 Naval cadets of the Direct Short Service Course 27.
“The COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest has further demonstrated the frailty and multiplexity nature of human security, apparently, there are no quick fixes to effectively combat security challenges bedeviling our dear nation.”
The Minister assured of President Buhari’s commitment in the fight against internal and external aggression.
He added: “It is, therefore, germain to appreciate the untiring support of Mr. President, Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Mohammadu Buhari, as he continues to demonstrate resolve and full support for the Nigerian armed forces through the resourcing of operational requirements and personnel welfare.
“It is against this background, that His excellency recently approved the increase in the manpower intake of the armed forces to comprehensively tackle the multifaceted security threats across the nation.”