The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s continues commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, democracy and territorial integrity, declaring that the military will give “no quarter” to enemies of the state.
General Oluyede made this known in a goodwill message to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, observed nationwide in honour of fallen heroes and serving personnel of the Nigerian military.
Describing the day as solemn and historic, the CDS said it provides the nation with an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary courage and sacrifices of officers and men who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria, noting that the peace and freedoms enjoyed by citizens today were secured through the selfless devotion of those who laid down their lives in service to the country.
He paid glowing tribute to fallen soldiers, stating that their sacrifices were acts of patriotism rather than accidents of fate, and assured that their legacies would never be forgotten.
The CDS also acknowledged the resilience of families of deceased personnel, describing their strength in the face of loss as a source of national inspiration.
General Oluyede commended troops currently deployed across various theatres of operation, praising their professionalism, loyalty and resilience under extremely challenging conditions, expressed pride in their performance and described their battle scars as silent evidence of courage, discipline and unwavering commitment to national duty.
Reiterating the resolve of the Armed Forces, the CDS warned that Nigeria’s adversaries, both within and outside the country, would continue to face decisive resistance. According to him, all threats to national security, whether local or trans-border, would be relentlessly confronted.
He emphasized that troop welfare remains a core priority of his leadership, in line with his Military Strategic Philosophy, which focuses on strengthening the Armed Forces through enhanced joint operations, improved welfare, sound administration and collaboration across government institutions, adding that lessons from veterans would continue to guide the military as it addresses evolving security challenges.
The CDS expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his leadership, strategic direction and consistent support to the military, assuring Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ enduring commitment to defending democratic values and ensuring peace and stability across the country.
General Oluyede also acknowledged the vital role played by families of military personnel, particularly spouses, whom he described as bravely holding the home front while their loved ones serve the nation.
He called on Nigerians to use the remembrance period to promote unity and reject divisive tendencies, stressing that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces highlight the need for a stronger national bond. He urged citizens to wear the remembrance emblem with pride, as a symbol of gratitude to both fallen and unsung heroes.
The CDS prayed
for the repose of the souls of departed soldiers and reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria.
