President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the Armed Forces and other security agencies are adequately equipped, properly motivated and well cared for to enable them to carry out their constitutional duties professionally and effectively.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, stated this on Sunday at the Inter-Denominational Church Service marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026, held in Abuja.
The event was attended by top security chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; their spouses; as well as serving and retired military and police officers.
Musa thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces and the families of fallen and serving personnel, describing the President’s actions as a reflection of his deep respect for service and sacrifice.
“His actions speak volumes about the value he places on service and sacrifice. We pray that Almighty God continues to grant him wisdom, strength and guidance as he leads our great nation,” the minister said.
The Defence Minister, who is a former Chief of Defence Staff, acknowledged the current challenges facing the country but expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome them. He commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their resilience and dedication in safeguarding the nation.
“Today is a moment of worship, reflection and remembrance. We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who paid the supreme price in service to our beloved country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Musa said.
He also paid tribute to those still serving, as well as their spouses and families, acknowledging the critical role they play in sustaining morale on the home front.
“To the spouses especially, we commend you for holding the home front with strength and dignity. I assure you that your welfare and well-being remain a priority, and you will not be forgotten,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the National Assembly, working in collaboration with the Executive, remained committed to restoring Nigeria’s status as one of the most peaceful and secure nations in Africa.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Sen. Peter Nwaebonyi, Akpabio said the sacrifices of both fallen and serving members of the Armed Forces had strengthened the resolve of leaders to build a safer, stronger and more united Nigeria.
“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, likening their sacrifice to the foundational role of martyrdom in Christianity.
He подчеркed Nigeria’s rich diversity, noting that the country is among the most linguistically diverse in the world, with citizens of different faiths united under one flag.
“Our Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, freedom of worship and freedom of conscience. These freedoms are the pillars upon which our democracy stands, and they must be protected at all times,” the Senate President said.