GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF GENERAL CG MUSA OFR FOR THE ARMED FORCES CELEBRATION AND REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE 2024
1. It is with great pleasure and honour that I felicitate with both officers and men of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on this solemn occasion being the Armed Forces Remembrance Day 2024. It is a commemoration of the unwavering commitment and heroism demonstrated by our brave men and women which serves as an inspiration to every one of us. This day holds great significance to us all as it provides us the opportunity to reflect upon the sacrifices, bravery and devoted commitment of our heroes in defending the freedom of our country and people. We remember and honour their sacrifices not just today, but every day as they gave ‘their today’ for ‘our tomorrow’.
2. On this day, we honour those alive both serving and retired and pay tribute to our gallant officers and men who have served and continue to serve in the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Particularly, we salute our fallen heroes who gave their lives for the love of our dear country. Their dedication, sacrifice, and selflessness in protecting and preserving our nation’s freedom and security have resulted in the relative peace which we enjoy as a country and as a people today. I must therefore say that, your sacrifices have not and will never be in vain. I express my deepest gratitude to you all for your many sacrifices and steadfast devotion to the accomplishment of our constitutional role in the defence of the unity and oneness of our dear country. This dedication and service to the protection of our nation and people is always and will forever be appreciated.
3. The Armed Forces of Nigeria represents the epitome of professionalism, discipline, selflessness and courage which are tenets we uphold as an armed force and must be evident always in our conduct. Particularly, as we continue to address the various security challenges bedevilling some parts of our beloved country, we must continue to work assiduously to eradicate all contending security threats while ensuring peace and security is restored to every part of our dear nation. On my own part I will continue to ensure the welfare of every officer and soldier is consistently prioritized while stirring the armed forces to achieve its mandate in line with my leadership philosophy which is ‘To Nurture a Professional Armed Forces of Nigeria that is People Centric, Capable of Meeting its Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint and collaborative Environment”. I urge you to remain vigilant and uncompromising as you discharge your duties diligently.
4. It is essential to acknowledge the special role played by our families particularly our spouses. We recognize that behind every soldier, seaman and airman there is a family that supports them unconditionally. These families also make untold sacrifices, enduring prolonged separations from their loved ones and at times constantly worry for their safety. Your immense contributions to the overall success of the armed forces is noteworthy and I salute your resilience as you stand with our servicemen and women. Once again, I commend your extraordinary commitment to duty and selfless service rendered for the love of our country. God bless us all, God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Signed:
CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA OFR
General
Chief of Defence Staff
Armed Forces of Nigeria
14 January 2024