Defence Minister Calls for Peace, Unity, Youth Empowerment at Iyamoye Day 2026

Defence Minister Calls for Peace, Unity, Youth Empowerment at Iyamoye Day 2026

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has called on communities across Nigeria to promote peace, unity and collective action as essential foundations for sustainable national development.

General Musa made the call while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the Iyamoye Day 2026 celebration in Iyamoye Kingdom, Kogi State, held under the theme, “Mobilising Our Collective Strength for Growth, Progress and a Prosperous Future.”

The Minister commended the Iyamoye Development Union (IDU), traditional leaders and residents for sustaining the annual cultural celebration, noting that meaningful development requires shared responsibility among government institutions, community leaders and citizens.

He stressed that peace and mutual understanding were necessary for communities to achieve lasting progress, while describing youth empowerment as a key driver of national development.

“No community can achieve sustainable progress without an atmosphere of peace and mutual understanding,” General Musa stated.

He urged stakeholders to create more opportunities for young people to acquire relevant skills, become productive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Highlighting the community’s motto, “In Oneness We Stand,” the Defence Minister also praised ongoing community-led investments in education, skills acquisition and local infrastructure. He encouraged sons and daughters of Iyamoye to sustain harmony and support their traditional institutions.

In recognition of his service to the nation and contributions to community development, the traditional institution and people of Iyamoye conferred on General Musa the chieftaincy title of Akinjagunla of Iyamoye Kingdom.

Expressing appreciation for the honour, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting peace and security across the country, noting that a peaceful environment would enable local economies to grow and cultural heritage to thrive.

Defence Minister Calls for Peace, Unity, Youth Empowerment at Iyamoye Day 2026