THE HALLMARK OF NATIONAL SECURITY

BY: GODDAY O. AGHEDO

January 15^th every year is celebrated as Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria. It is a day set aside to acknowledge the heroic contributions as well as rewarding excellence of personnel in the Nigerian military. This year’s commemoration has come with lots of mixed feelings and reactions, as some people hold the opinion that the armed forces have fallen short of expectation while others believe they have done well so far. It’s no news that Nigeria has suffered serious setbacks security wise, in recent times. National security almost hit the bricks considering the increasing insurgency attacks launched by the dreaded Boko-Haram terrorists, cases of murder, pipeline vandalism, armed-robbery, kidnapping and various other sorts of heinous criminal and condemnable activities of some unscrupulous entities. To add salt to injury is the recent genocide executed by suspected Fulani Herdsmen in Benue State. While it is worthwhile to celebrate this unique sector of Nigeria’s national life, there is no gainsaying that the security challenges in Nigeria are multiplying instead of shrinking. This calls for more worries actually, than resting on our oars; and the military must win back the trust of Nigerians in their ability to secure lives and properties of the citizens/inhabitants.

Security is a basic concern of every citizen and we cannot under mind the gallant efforts of our military officers at various cadre. It is imperative to reward and honour our heroes past. Amidst many challenges such as lack of incentives, having to combat enemies in possession of far more sophisticated weapons, military effort sabotage by internal devious elements, bad leadership, politicizing the allocation and relocation of military personnel, lack of cooperation by members of the community amongst others.

However, it is noteworthy to bear in mind the hallmark of any security outfit of any nation.

1.  Heart-rooted Discipline
2.  Impeccable Integrity
3. Undaunted Bravery
4. Unalloyed Patriotism
5. Selflessness
6. Hard work and Commitment
7. Skill and Professionalism
8. Respect and Loyalty

Nevertheless, the Nigerian military has come a long way and deserve to be applauded. So much has been achieved in the past but honestly, there is still much to be done. Bravo, to the Nigerian military, the paramilitary forces and to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.