The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, (Rtd) has reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to ensuring that the Military, as well as their families are well taken care of, so as to diligently carry on with their national task of securing the nation.
The Minister opined this during an Inter-denominational Service held on Sunday, 11th January, 2026 in Abuja, as part of the activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day .
In a Vote of Thanks, Musa acknowledged the commitment and sacrifices of the Nigerian Military and their families, those who have died while serving the nation and those still putting in their best to salvage the nation.
“We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who paid the supreme price in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership in securing the welfare of the military and urged Nigerians to work together with the government in order to achieve victory over the nation’s challenging situations of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry amongst others ‘we shall overcome them ’ he insisted.
Giving the sermon at the event, Most Rev. Uche Okafor of Presbyterian Church, Abuja anchored his speech from 2 Chronicles, chapter 32 verses 5 through 8 with caption ‘Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Security’. He thanked the military for their sacrifices to the nation and the encouragement they offer the citizens of this country. According to him, when there is danger, soldiers are sent, when all run away from danger, soldiers confront danger’.
While urging Nigerian military not to be discouraged, he called on all Nigerians to encourage and support them maintaining that ‘they are not just serving Nigeria, they are serving Almighty God and humanity’. He equally prayed God to grant the Military spiritual security and protection, be strong and courageous, do not be afraid, he admonished.
Rev. Okafor further assured Nigerians that this country shall be better and that Nigerian soldiers will conquer the enemies of Nigeria. He as well cautioned the military to remain neutral and patriotic, as 2027 draws near.
Present at the event were; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oloyede; Chief of Army staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, Chief of Naval staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas represented , Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke represented, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Udieandeye, representative of the Senate President, Deputy speaker House of Representatives, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Heads of Ministries and Paratatals, Directors and the media.