Defence Minister Lauds Nigerians’ Support at 2026 Armed Forces Symposium

Defence Minister Lauds Nigerians’ Support at 2026 Armed Forces Symposium

The Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has commended Nigerians for their unwavering support to the Armed Forces as they intensify counter-insurgency and internal security operations across the country.

ALSO READ: Elderly Tenant Gifted $700,000 Home by Late Landlord in Remarkable Act of Generosity

General Musa made the remarks at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) National Symposium and Lecture Series held on 12 January 2026 at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja. The event attracted top military leaders, policymakers and security stakeholders, including the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, whose presence underscored the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to joint operations and strategic collaboration in pursuit of national security objectives.

The Defence Minister described public trust, cooperation and collaboration as vital pillars supporting ongoing efforts to restore peace, security and stability nationwide. He noted that the sacrifices of personnel, especially fallen heroes, are continually strengthened by the resilience and encouragement of Nigerians, stressing that national security remains a shared responsibility.

General Musa further explained that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, defence and security initiatives have been deliberately aligned with national development priorities. He highlighted the revitalisation of indigenous defence production following the amendment of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act, which has expanded local manufacturing capacity, encouraged private sector participation and reduced dependence on foreign procurement.

He also noted that sustained investments in personnel training and welfare, alongside the deployment of Special Operations Forces, have significantly enhanced operational effectiveness, precision and agility. According to him, these efforts, supported by strengthened regional and international partnerships, have led to intensified air, land and maritime operations against terrorists and other criminal elements, improved security outcomes and better protection of critical national assets.

The symposium, themed “Armed Forces and National Development,” featured the presentation of a theme paper by Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Rtd). Discussions were enriched by contributions from Lieutenant General F. Yahaya (Rtd), Air Vice Marshal E.A. Wonah (Rtd) and Rear Admiral S.O. Agada (Rtd), while the session was moderated by Lieutenant General L.O. Adeosun (Rtd).

The forum provided a platform for robust engagement on Nigeria’s evolving security landscape and the expanding role of the Armed Forces in safeguarding democracy, fostering stability and driving national progress.

Defence Minister Lauds Nigerians’ Support at 2026 Armed Forces Symposium