The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa has assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will not fail Nigerians and that Nigeria will not fail as a nation its despite challenges.
General Musa also reiterated the urgent need for national unity and citizens’ collaboration to overcome Nigeria’s security challenges, insisting that the country remains resilient despite threats and negative narratives.
The CDS stated this while giving his keynote address at the inaugural media programme of the 2025 VON Forum.
He stressed that no one will come from outside to liberate Nigeria. “If the military fails, the nation fails, but Nigeria will not fail.
“Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral and natural resources, but unless we work together as a people, we will not realise the full potential of this great nation.”
He stressed the critical role of the media in combating misinformation and disinformation, warning that the spread of falsehoods undermines national cohesion.
“We live in a time where people celebrate failure. Some don’t understand that when the economy collapses, everyone is affected; they have failed too,” General Musa said.
He highlighted the enduring unity of the armed forces, describing it as a family whose loyalty transcends life.
The Defense Chief further appealed to Nigerians to “support your military. Don’t allow our enemies to divide us. When we stand united, we defeat those who want to see this country fall.”
Acknowledging the ongoing security volatility, he assured that victory is possible through public cooperation.
“It is the silence of citizens that enables terrorists to thrive. Ask yourself, who is feeding them? Who supplies their ammunition? Do you want to become a refugee in your own country?”
The CDS described the forum as timely, saying it allows citizens to hear directly from their leaders and to counter the flood of misinformation.
“Some wish to see Nigeria disintegrate; we must never allow that,” Musa charged.
He urged Nigerians to support the military, especially those who have suffered permanent injuries or paid the ultimate price defending the nation.
“Our soldiers are heroes. Many have lost limbs, lives, and loved ones. They have sacrificed so we can enjoy the democracy we have today. We must never forget them.
“When a soldier dies and you rejoice, when your nation’s security collapses, you no longer have a home,” he declared..
He further reminded Nigerians that while the military recruits ordinary citizens, not angels, there are systems in place to refine and discipline them. “Yes, they come with baggage, but we have mechanisms to fish out bad elements.”
General Musa concluded with a passionate call to patriotism, unity, and self-determination.
“No country is without security challenges, but other nations are protecting their borders, their people, and their integrity. We must do the same.
“Let us tell our own stories; no one else should define us. Together, we shall build a united Nigeria that works,” he charged.
