Abuja: The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians who support terrorists, bandits, and criminal elements, stating that they will face the full consequences of their actions. Musa spoke during the ceremonial tee-off of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Golf Tournament at the TYB International Golf Club, Abuja. The event was held to honour serving and fallen members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Musa emphasized the importance of providing timely intelligence to aid the Armed Forces in taking swift action. He urged all law-abiding Nigerians to report suspicious activities promptly, reinforcing the message that security is a collective responsibility. Musa described the annual Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance as a time to pay tribute to personnel who have sacrificed their lives and commended the families of fallen heroes for their resilience.
Musa also expressed gratitude towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his support of military personnel and their families. He called for continued public support for the Armed Forces, highlighting the need for vigilance, cooperation, and patriotic commitment from every citizen.
Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, addressed the participants, underscoring the importance of public cooperation in achieving national security. He expressed appreciation for the support received from Nigerians and emphasized the need for increased collaboration to fulfill the armed forces’ mandate. Oluyede praised the courage and professionalism of the armed forces, acknowledging the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Brig.-Gen. Nicholas Achinze, Club Captain of the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Club, welcomed over 100 golfers to the tournament. He noted that the event is part of a series of activities marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance 2026. The ceremonial tee-off served as a symbolic gesture to officially launch the tournament, which will culminate in an evening presentation ceremony. The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour the living and fallen members of the Nigerian military.