Abuja, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for the nation’s Armed Forces, assuring that no officer or soldier performing lawful duties will be unjustly punished.
The Minister gave the assurance while addressing journalists at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday, amid public debates surrounding recent military operations and alleged disciplinary actions against some personnel.
Government Stands Firmly Behind the Armed Forces
Minister Badaru stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains committed to upholding justice, professionalism, and accountability in the military while ensuring that security personnel who act within the law receive full protection from the state.
“Let me make it abundantly clear: no officer or soldier who is carrying out his or her lawful duty in line with military ethics and rules of engagement will be punished or victimized,” the Minister said.
“Our troops are risking their lives daily to defend this country. The government will continue to stand by them, provided they operate within the boundaries of legality and professionalism.”
He emphasized that the administration recognizes the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in combating terrorism, banditry, oil theft, and other security challenges across the country, noting that morale and discipline must always be balanced with fairness.
Context of the Minister’s Statement
The Defence Minister’s comments come in response to public concerns following reports of internal disciplinary reviews in some military formations.
Some commentators had suggested that certain soldiers were being sanctioned for actions taken during field operations, particularly in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry missions in northern Nigeria.
However, Minister Badaru clarified that the Nigerian military operates under strict codes of conduct and international humanitarian law, adding that disciplinary procedures are aimed at maintaining professionalism, not punishing those performing legitimate duties.
“Every modern army in the world has rules of engagement. These rules are not meant to weaken our troops but to strengthen their legitimacy and operational integrity,” he explained.
Reaffirming Professionalism and Accountability
Badaru reiterated that the Ministry of Defence is working closely with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and the service chiefs to ensure that all military operations are guided by accountability, respect for human rights, and protection of civilians.
“Our forces are professional. We investigate allegations when they arise, but we do not condemn our troops without facts. The Nigerian soldier remains a symbol of courage and sacrifice,” he added.
He further warned against false narratives and social media misinformation aimed at undermining the morale of security forces, urging the public to verify claims before spreading them.
“Disinformation can be as dangerous as weapons. We must not allow fake news to erode the trust between citizens and our Armed Forces,” the Minister cautioned.
Defence Headquarters Backs the Minister’s Position
In a related statement, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, echoed the Minister’s assurance, saying that the Nigerian Armed Forces operate strictly within their constitutional mandate and established rules of engagement.
Buba noted that troops on the frontlines are often placed in complex and life-threatening situations, and the military leadership consistently reviews actions to ensure both discipline and fairness.
“We maintain internal mechanisms for oversight, but the narrative that soldiers are being unfairly punished for doing their jobs is false. The Armed Forces stand firmly behind every officer acting within the law,” he said.
He added that the military will continue to enforce discipline where misconduct is proven but will protect every personnel performing lawful operations against enemies of the state.
Troops’ Welfare Remains a Priority
Minister Badaru used the opportunity to reaffirm the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel, including better living conditions, insurance packages, and compensation for families of fallen heroes.
“President Tinubu has directed that we prioritize the welfare of our troops. We are enhancing their housing, healthcare, and logistics to ensure that those who defend Nigeria do so with pride and comfort,” he said.
He also confirmed that the Ministry is reviewing the Armed Forces Remuneration Framework to align with current economic realities, with the goal of making military service more rewarding.
A Message to the Troops
The Minister extended a message of solidarity to all officers and soldiers serving across Nigeria’s operational theatres — from the North-East to the South-South and other regions — urging them to remain steadfast, disciplined, and confident in the government’s backing.
“You are the pride of this nation. We see your sacrifices and we stand with you. As long as you act within your mandate, this government will never abandon or punish you unjustly,” he assured.
He encouraged military personnel to continue their work with professionalism, especially in protecting civilians, upholding human rights, and sustaining peace in conflict-prone regions.
Civil-Military Cooperation and Human Rights
Badaru highlighted that the Defence Ministry is also collaborating with civil society organizations and international partners to strengthen civil-military relations and promote human rights awareness within the Armed Forces.
He revealed that periodic training workshops and legal briefings are now mandatory for officers in field operations, ensuring compliance with both Nigerian law and international humanitarian standards.
“Our soldiers are trained not only to fight but also to respect the dignity of life. The era of blanket accusations against our Armed Forces must end,” he stressed.
Public Support and Trust in the Military
The Defence Minister appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through intelligence sharing, community cooperation, and positive engagement with security personnel.
“Security is a shared responsibility. When you see something, say something — but also, stand with those who defend you. The soldier is your brother, your neighbour, your protector,” Badaru said.
He emphasized that victory against terrorism, banditry, and other threats can only be achieved through national unity and trust between civilians and the military.
Conclusion
Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has reaffirmed that no Nigerian soldier or officer performing lawful duties will face unjust punishment under the current administration.
The statement underscores the Federal Government’s position of zero tolerance for misconduct, balanced with strong institutional support for lawful and professional service.
As the Armed Forces continue to confront multiple security challenges, the Minister’s assurance is seen as a morale booster — reinforcing the confidence of troops and reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to fairness, justice, and national security.
