Abuja: The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has described serving officers and men of the Armed Forces as the finest representation of Nigeria and the nation’s enduring shield. Musa stated this at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Regimental Dinner and Awards Night held on Wednesday in Abuja. He urged them to continue to uphold discipline, loyalty, and respect for human rights, emphasizing that failure was not an option in their quest to secure Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Musa highlighted the diversity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces as a critical strength, noting that their unity of purpose is central to safeguarding national sovereignty and stability. ‘In you, we see the best of Nigeria. The nation believes in you and failure is never an option,’ the minister said. He lauded the professionalism, courage, and resilience of troops operating across the country and in external missions, acknowledging that the peace and security enjoyed by Nigerians were ear
ned through their vigilance and sacrifice.
He further described the AFCRD as more than a ceremonial event, portraying it as a solemn moment of remembrance for fallen heroes and a celebration of serving personnel whose dedication continues to define the Armed Forces. Musa assured troops of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to improving operational capability, logistics, and welfare, stressing that President Bola Tinubu remains resolute in supporting the military. 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 commended Tinubu for his leadership and renewed focus on security, and lauded the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for strengthening joint operations and professionalism. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, noted that the dinner provided a unique platform to reinforce the enduring values of discipline, honour, and unity that defined the military. Oluyede
emphasized that these traditions serve not only as a reminder of the military’s rich heritage but also as a reaffirmation of its collective resolve to remain steadfast in the defense of the nation’s sovereignty and democratic institutions.
He stressed the armed forces’ commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct in executing their constitutional duties, adding that respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law were essential to sustaining public trust and operational legitimacy. The defence chief stated that these principles would continue to guide military operations as troops confront evolving security challenges across the country. The event featured the presentation of command medals of honour to deserving officers in recognition of gallantry, meritorious service, and dedication to duty.
The dinner was one of the activities lined up to commemorate the 2026 AFCRD, which will conclude with the laying of wreaths on Thursday across the country in honour of the fallen heroes.