The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and their families, stressing that their well-being remains central to national security efforts.
According to a press statement by Iheoma-Hart Queeneth, Chief Information Officer in the ministry, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), gave the assurance on Sunday in Abuja during an inter-denominational service marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Speaking during a vote of thanks, the minister acknowledged the sacrifices of serving and fallen military personnel and praised their families for their resilience and support.
“We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who paid the supreme price in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Musa said.
He noted that ensuring the welfare of the military is critical to enabling them to carry out their constitutional responsibility of safeguarding the nation. The minister also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support for the armed forces, particularly in matters of welfare and operational readiness.
General Musa urged Nigerians to collaborate with the government and security agencies in tackling the country’s security challenges, including terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
“If we work together with the government and our security forces, we shall overcome these challenges,” he assured.
Delivering the sermon at the service, the Most Reverend Uche Okafor of the Presbyterian Church, Abuja, anchored his message on 2 Chronicles 32:5–8, with the theme “Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Security.” He expressed appreciation to the military for their courage and selfless service to the nation.
“When there is danger, soldiers are sent. When others run away from danger, soldiers confront danger,” Okafor said.
He urged members of the armed forces not to be discouraged, calling on Nigerians to continually encourage and support them.
“They are not just serving Nigeria; they are serving Almighty God and humanity,” he added.
The cleric prayed for divine protection and spiritual strength for the military, urging them to remain strong and courageous. He further expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its challenges and cautioned the armed forces to remain neutral and patriotic as the 2027 general elections approach.
Dignitaries at the event included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oloyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu; representatives of the Chiefs of Naval and Air Staff; the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Udieandeye; representatives of the Senate President and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of ministries and parastatals, and media executives.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour fallen heroes and celebrate the dedication of Nigeria’s military personnel in the defence of the nation.
