‘You are Nigeria’s finest shield,’ Defence Minister tells Armed Forces

The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has described officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces as the finest representation of the country and the enduring shield of its sovereignty.

Musa made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Regimental Dinner and Awards Night, where he charged troops to remain steadfast in discipline, loyalty and respect for human rights.

According to the minister, the nation places absolute trust in its armed forces, stressing that failure is not an option in their mission to secure Nigeria.

“In you, we see the best of Nigeria. The nation believes in you, and failure is never an option,” Musa said.

He noted that the diversity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces remains one of its greatest strengths, while unity of purpose continues to be critical to maintaining national stability and territorial integrity.

Musa commended the professionalism, courage and resilience of troops deployed across the country and on external missions, acknowledging that the peace and security enjoyed by Nigerians were earned through their vigilance and sacrifice.

He described the AFCRD as more than a ceremonial occasion, saying it was a solemn moment to honour fallen heroes and celebrate serving personnel whose dedication defines the character of the Armed Forces.

The minister reassured troops of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to improving operational capability, logistics and welfare, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in supporting the military in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

He also paid tribute to families of fallen soldiers, describing them as silent pillars of national sacrifice whose loved ones would never be forgotten.

Musa further commended the President for his leadership and renewed focus on national security, while praising the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Service Chiefs for strengthening joint operations and professionalism across the services.

Earlier, the CDS, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the regimental dinner provided a unique platform to reinforce the enduring values of discipline, honour and unity that define the Nigerian military.

Oluyede explained that the tradition served not only as a reminder of the Armed Forces’ rich heritage but also as a reaffirmation of their collective resolve to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic institutions.

He emphasised the military’s commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct, stressing that respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law were essential to sustaining public trust and operational legitimacy.

According to him, these principles will continue to guide military operations as troops confront evolving security challenges across the country.

The event featured the presentation of the Command Medal of Honour to deserving officers in recognition of gallantry, meritorious service and dedication to duty.

The regimental dinner formed part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, which will conclude on Thursday with the laying of wreaths nationwide in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.