The immediate-past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has said that Nigeria’s security was in safe hands with current Service Chiefs appointed by President Bola Tinubu.
He also said that he was leaving the Armed Forces of Nigeria with a “clear conscience” after giving his best to the nation.
General Musa (Rtd) stated this in his valedictory speech on Friday during the Pulling Out Parade organised in his honour in Abuja.
He said the parade was not just a ceremony but a sacred military tradition that marks the conclusion of a remarkable 39 years and four months of service to his beloved nation, Nigeria.
He added that the parade also signals the beginning of a new chapter in his life. “As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am humbled by the privilege of having served my country,” he stated.
The former CDS thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
“It has been an incredible honour, and I do not take that for granted. We shall remain loyal and committed to the cause, even in retirement. Together, we will continue to ensure that our Armed Forces and security agencies are able to fulfil their responsibilities with excellence,” he said.
He also thanked the Nigerian Army and the entire Armed Forces for providing him the opportunity to serve for nearly four decades.
General Musa, while congratulating his successor, the current Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the new Service Chiefs, he assured them of his full support as they continued the great work.
“The security of our nation is in capable hands, and I urge you all—personnel and civilians alike—to continue serving with the same loyalty, dedication, and professionalism that you have shown me,” he said.
He said the journey could not have been successful without the unwavering support of his family.
“To my dear wife, Oghogho Lilian Musa, and my wonderful children—Kuyet, Yashinbobai, and Indi—you have been my rock.
“You bore the weight of my long absences, the anxiety of my deployments, and the constant concern for my safety. You are the unsung heroes of my service, and I owe you more than words can express,” he said to his family.
General Musa, in his tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces, described them as the true heroes of the nation.
“I have had the privilege of serving alongside giants. I’ve witnessed your courage in the face of adversity, your resilience in the harshest conditions, and your unwavering commitment to the peace and unity of our country. You are the best among us, and it has been the highest honour of my life to be your comrade and your leader.
“I urge you all to never lose faith, to remain steadfast in your duties, and to uphold the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and selfless service. Remember: defeat is temporary, but victory is forever. Keep believing in Nigeria, for it is a nation worth fighting for,” he stated.
I also wish to acknowledge the resilience and support of the Nigerian people, especially our youth. Your prayers, encouragement, and steadfast belief in a better, safer Nigeria have been the wind beneath our wings,” he added.
Gen. Musa (rtd) thanked the Nigerian media for their vital role in supporting national security.
He also appreciated the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the NIA, the DIA, and all other security agencies whose contributions were instrumental in the success of the efforts.
“As I retire my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all. I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie, battle-hardened thoughts, and the triumphs we celebrated together as one family. While the sound of the drill may fade for me, the heart of a soldier beats forever. I may be retiring from active service, but I will never retire from my love for Nigeria.
“I remain a soldier at heart, a patriot committed to the Constitution and sovereignty of our great nation,” the the immediate-past CDS said.
