CDS Gen. Musa Honours Armed Forces Heroes with Awards and N1 Million Each
CDS Gen. Musa Honours Armed Forces Heroes with Awards and N1 Million Each
CDS Gen. Musa Honours Armed Forces Heroes with Awards and N1 Million Each
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has recognised and rewarded exceptional soldiers, ratings, and airmen of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their outstanding performances in 2024.
The awards were presented during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Social
and Award Evening over the weekend in Abuja.
Gen. Musa expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by the awardees and the armed forces at large.
“I want to tell you we appreciate everything you are doing—your sacrifices, leaving your families behind, staying in the trenches, and ensuring our nation’s safety. This award is our way of saying thank you,” he said.
The CDS underscored the need for balancing disciplinary measures with recognition for excellent service, noting that the award night was a historic first.
“This is no longer just about court-martials or punishments. It is also about celebrating Those who have performed extraordinarily well,” Musa added.
Gen. Musa emphasised the importance of recognising both active and retired members of the armed forces for their contributions. He highlighted the shift from focusing solely on fallen heroes to celebrating those still in service.
“Our great nation is indebted to your loyalty and legacy,” he said. “As we celebrate Tonight, let us remember the noble sacrifices made for the freedom and defence. of our motherland.”
Gen. Musa and the service chiefs pledged to improve the welfare, training, and operational readiness of the Armed Forces. Modernisation of infrastructure and equipment, alongside welfare programs for personnel and their families, remains a top priority.
The CDS also appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast leadership and support for the Armed Forces, emphasising the need to sustain synergy among services for maximum operational effectiveness.
Also speaking Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, urged troops to remain loyal and committed to combating security threats such as terrorism and insurgency. “We must not lose sight of our oath to serve faithfully and uphold the collective peace of our nation,” he said.
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, represented by AVM Idi Sani, celebrated the awardees’ dedication. “Your achievements remind us of the limitless potential to excel and make a difference,” he noted, while reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to welfare and modernisation.
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, praised the loyalty and courage of naval personnel. “We will continue to prioritise your welfare and enhance our operations to tackle emerging security challenges effectively,” he assured.
The CDS, alongside the service chiefs, reaffirmed the
importance of unity, discipline, and professionalism within the Armed Forces.
They lauded the collaborative efforts across the services, which have resulted in significant gains in counterinsurgency operations and national security.
This landmark celebration not only honoured the courage of the past but also inspired ongoing commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace and security.
The award ceremony featured three main categories: Commendation Award, Defence Research
Award and Defence Valour Medal
Each awardee received a certificate of commendation, eligibility for promotion when due, and
a cash prize of ₦1 million.
CDS Gen. Musa Honours Armed Forces Heroes with Awards and N1 Million Each