The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to ensuring that the Armed Forces and other security agencies are adequately equipped, properly motivated, and well cared for to effectively discharge their constitutional duties.
Musa stated this in Abuja while speaking at the Inter-Denominational Church Service for the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026.
The service was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, their spouses, as well as senior serving and retired military and police officers.
The defence minister thanked President Tinubu for his consistent support for the welfare of troops and their families, describing the president’s actions as a clear reflection of how much he values service and sacrifice.
“His actions speak volumes about the value he places on service and sacrifice. We pray that Almighty God continues to grant him wisdom, strength, and guidance as he leads our great nation,” Musa said.
The former Chief of Defence Staff acknowledged that Nigeria is currently facing difficult times but expressed confidence that the country would overcome its challenges. He commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their resilience and dedication to safeguarding the nation.
“Today is a moment of worship, reflection, and remembrance. We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who paid the supreme price in service to our beloved country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he said.
Musa also praised serving personnel and their families, particularly spouses, for their sacrifices and support on the home front, assuring them that their welfare remains a priority.
“To the spouses especially, we commend you for holding the home front with strength and dignity. Your welfare and well-being will not be forgotten,” he added.
Also speaking, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Sen. Peter Nwaebonyi, said the National Assembly, working with the Executive, remains resolute in efforts to restore Nigeria as one of the most peaceful and secure nations in Africa.
Akpabio said the sacrifices of fallen and serving members of the Armed Forces have strengthened the nation’s resolve to build a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria.
“The blood of our fallen heroes and heroines has been, and will continue to be, the seed of our national unity, peace, and progress,” he said.
He further described Nigeria as one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world, united by a shared destiny, and stressed that freedom of religion, worship, and conscience, as guaranteed by the Constitution, remains a pillar of the nation’s democracy and must be protected at all times.
