by George Ozalla
The Federal Government has restated its commitment to the welfare of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and their families, assuring them of sustained support as they continue to shoulder the responsibility of securing the nation.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), gave the assurance on Sunday in Abuja during an inter-denominational service held as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Musa said the wellbeing of serving and retired military personnel, as well as the families of fallen heroes, remains a priority for the Federal Government in order to enable the Armed Forces to effectively discharge their national duty. He paid tribute to officers and men who lost their lives in the line of duty, noting that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
In his remarks, the Defence Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support for the military, particularly in the area of welfare, and urged Nigerians to support government efforts to overcome the nation’s security challenges, including terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
Delivering the sermon, the Most Rev. Uche Okafor of the Presbyterian Church, Abuja, spoke on the theme Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Security, drawing his message from the book of Second Chronicles, chapter 32, verses 5 to 8. He praised the Nigerian military for their sacrifices and courage, describing them as defenders who confront danger when others flee.
Okafor urged officers and men of the Armed Forces not to be discouraged, calling on Nigerians to continually encourage and support them. He said the military’s service transcends national duty, extending to humanity and divine service, while praying for their spiritual protection and strength. He also expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its challenges and advised the military to remain neutral and patriotic as the 2027 general elections approach.
Dignitaries at the service included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oloyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Udieandeye, as well as representatives of the Chief of Naval Staff and the Chief of Air Staff. Others were representatives of the Senate President and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of ministries and parastatals, directors in the defence sector and members of the media.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour fallen heroes and appreciate the sacrifices of serving and retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the defence of the country.
