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... Pays glowing tribute to General Christopher Musa (rtd), describing his tenure as “a period marked by commitment and clear vision for a professional and adaptive Armed Forces.”

 Lt Gen Oluyede Assumes Duty as Chief of Defence Staff, Pledges Loyalty, Innovation, and Enhanced Welfare for Troops

The Nigerian Armed Forces on Thursday witnessed a poignant moment of transition as the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (OFR), formally handed over leadership to the new CDS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, during a valedictory ceremony held at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

In his emotional farewell address, General Musa reflected on his 39 years of military service, describing his tenure as “challenging but incredibly rewarding.” He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the trust reposed in him and to the Almighty God for strength throughout his service. 

“We faced a complex and dynamic security landscape, but we confronted it with unwavering resolve, guided by our constitutional mandate and a shared vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria,” he stated.

Highlighting the achievements under his command, the outgoing CDS noted that his administration prioritized joint operations, inter-agency collaboration, and personnel welfare, which enhanced operational effectiveness and national security. 

General Musa praised the gallantry of troops who “pushed back the frontiers of terror, liberated communities, and restored hope,” while paying glowing tribute to fallen heroes and wounded warriors. 

He also appreciated the Nigerian media, describing journalists as “vital allies” in the battle for truth and national morale. “Your commitment to verifying information, even in the frantic race against misinformation, has been crucial,” he said. 

The retired CDS extended gratitude to the National Assembly, Ministry of Defence, Service Chiefs, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and the Nigerian people for their collective support during his tenure.

Turning to his successor, General Musa described Lieutenant General Oluyede as “a distinguished officer of impeccable credentials, strategic insight, and deep dedication to duty,” urging officers and men to give him full support.  “I hand over the reins of leadership with confidence that the Armed Forces will continue to soar under his command,” he affirmed.

In his closing remarks, the visibly emotional General Musa declared, “The journey continues; the mission endures; the duty never ends. I may be retiring from active service, but my commitment to Nigeria remains unshaken.” 

The ceremony concluded with applause, military honours, and a standing ovation as General Musa took a final salute, marking the end of an illustrious career and the beginning of a new chapter for the nation’s top military leadership.

In his remarks, the newly decorated the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, General Christopher Musa (rtd), describing his tenure as “a period marked by commitment and clear vision for a professional and adaptive Armed Forces.” He commended General Musa’s leadership for enhancing joint operations, inter-agency collaboration, and personnel welfare, assuring that those gains will be consolidated.

Reaffirming his dedication to national security, the CDS said his leadership would be guided by “professionalism, discipline, innovation, and accountability.” He identified key security challenges including terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and maritime insecurity, stressing the need for continuous vigilance and unity among the services.

“We shall build on the achievements of our predecessors by strengthening synergy among the services and defence agencies,” he affirmed. “The Defence Headquarters will continue to advocate for improved welfare, housing, medical support, and training opportunities for our personnel and their families.”

General Oluyede further underscored the importance of capacity building, research, and technology in modern warfare, noting that the Armed Forces would deepen collaboration with local and international partners to advance operational efficiency.

To troops across the country, he charged: “Continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline, loyalty, and professionalism. Every action you take reflects on the Armed Forces and on Nigeria as a whole.”

He also called on Nigerians to sustain their support for the military, assuring that the Armed Forces would continue to defend the nation’s sovereignty and promote peace and stability.

“I pledge my absolute loyalty to our nation and to Mr. President,” the CDS concluded. “Together, we shall uphold the proud traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces and advance the cause of peace, security, and national unity.”