Abuja — Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has declared that despite the country’s mounting security challenges, the nation will overcome, as he reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces and security agencies to defending Nigeria’s unity and democracy.
Musa spoke on Sunday at the interdenominational thanksgiving service marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
He said Nigeria was passing through a difficult period marked by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime, but insisted that the resilience and sacrifice of the nation’s security forces would see the country through.
“Yes, we have threats of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal endeavours, but we have armed forces, police and security agencies that are committed, resilient and have sacrificed so much to take on these challenges — and we shall overcome,” he said.
The minister described the occasion as a moment of worship, reflection and remembrance, paying tribute to fallen soldiers and honouring those still in active service, as well as their families.
“We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who have paid the supreme price in service to our beloved country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Their names are permanently etched in the history of our nation and in the hearts of grateful Nigerians,” he said.
Musa also assured military families, especially spouses, that their welfare remains a priority, noting that the burden they carry on the home front is critical to national stability.
He further praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as strong support for the Armed Forces.
“The President is committed to ensuring that our Armed Forces and other security agencies are adequately equipped, properly motivated, and well taken care of to enable them discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively and professionally,” he said.
Cleric warns against coups ahead of 2027
In his sermon, Most Rev. Uche Dan Okafor issued a strong appeal to Nigeria’s military leadership not to follow the path of recent military takeovers across West Africa.
He urged the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and the service chiefs to remain loyal to democratic rule as Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections.
“As the wind of coup is blowing across West Africa, don’t think about it. Be neutral to all political parties and stand in defence of democracy,” Okafor warned.
Drawing from 2 Chronicles 32:5–8, the cleric said the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping was not just a national duty but also a spiritual one.
“You are not just serving Nigerians; you are serving the Almighty God. Fighting terrorism, banditry and kidnapping is doing the work of God who condemns these vices,” he said.
He also predicted an end to insecurity in the country, declaring that sponsors and backers of violent groups would soon be exposed.
National Assembly pledges support
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Chief Whip Sen. Peter Nwebonyi, assured that the National Assembly, working with the Executive, remained committed to restoring Nigeria’s peace and security.
He said the sacrifices of fallen military personnel had laid the foundation for national unity and stability.
“The blood of our fallen heroes and heroines has been, and will continue to be, the seed of our national unity, peace and progress,” Akpabio said.
He also stressed the importance of protecting religious freedom and democratic values in a diverse nation like Nigeria.
“These freedoms are the pillars upon which our democracy stands, and they must be protected at all times,” he added.
The ceremony ended with prayers for fallen heroes and for divine protection over Nigeria’s security forces as they continue to defend the country’s sovereignty and unity.
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