The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain committed to defending the nation’s democratic values and ensuring peace and security.

Oluyede made the remarks in his goodwill message during the commemoration of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, emphasizing that the military will continue to uphold professionalism, discipline, and constitutional responsibilities.

He paid tribute to fallen heroes, noting that their sacrifices safeguarded Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty. “Their devotion to duty was not a mishap but a calling to patriotism,” Oluyede said, adding that the Armed Forces would ensure their legacies endure.

The CDS also recognized the contributions of serving personnel across various operations, praising their dedication, courage, and loyalty. He assured that the welfare of military personnel remains a top priority, and reiterated that the Armed Forces will continue to combat all threats to national security, both local and transnational.

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Defence Ministry Focuses on Local Production, Capacity Building

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at expanding indigenous defence production, promoting private sector participation, creating jobs, and reducing dependence on foreign supplies. Musa said these initiatives, combined with improved training and collaboration with international partners, have strengthened operational effectiveness against transnational threats.

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Former COAS Calls for Strategic Reforms

Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), former Chief of Army Staff, proposed the establishment of a National Defence Innovation Fund (NDIF) to finance research in critical technologies, including cyber defence, drones, satellite communications, and renewable energy solutions for forward bases. He called for accelerated professionalisation of the Armed Forces, a better-equipped police force for internal security, and a revised National Service and Veterans’ Framework to guarantee pensions, healthcare, and skills conversion for retired personnel.

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Governors Highlight Support for Military Families

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged support for widows of fallen heroes and emphasized welfare programs for military families, alongside renovation of barracks and other initiatives. He also advised Muslim leaders to project positive narratives about their faith.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia assured retirees that all outstanding pensions and gratuities accrued within the last two and a half years will be cleared by the end of the month, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to civil servants’ welfare.

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Collective Responsibility for National Security

Officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, and the Chief Imam of Lagos Secretariat Community Mosques, stressed that security is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between the military, civil authorities, and communities.

Oluyede concluded: “We assure the President and Nigerians of our enduring commitment to defending our democratic values while ensuring peace and security in our beloved nation.”