The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM, NAM, CMH, GSS, psc, mni, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Nigerians and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), describing the season as a time for love, sacrifice, hope and national renewal.
In a goodwill message to mark Christmas 2025 and the New Year 2026, the CDS called on Nigerians to reflect on shared responsibilities, unity and unwavering commitment to peace and national progress. He expressed deep appreciation to citizens for their resilience, patriotism and sustained support to the Armed Forces despite the nation’s multifaceted security challenges.
General Oluyede said the trust, cooperation and synergy between the military and the citizenry remain critical to achieving sustainable peace and security, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces would continue to uphold their constitutional mandate to defend the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and democratic institutions.
The CDS paid special tribute to frontline troops deployed across various theatres of operation, noting that their courage, discipline, professionalism and selfless service—often at great personal sacrifice—reflect the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He described their vigilance during the festive season as a noble commitment for which the nation owes them an immeasurable debt of gratitude.
Reassuring personnel of leadership’s commitment to their well-being, General Oluyede stated that troop welfare remains a top priority. He highlighted the Military Strategic Philosophy of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which focuses on consolidating capabilities through enhanced jointness, reinforced operational posture, improved welfare and sound administration under a whole-of-government approach. He added that efforts are ongoing to improve living and working conditions through enhanced welfare packages, better healthcare, improved accommodation, timely payment of allowances and sustained support for the families of fallen heroes.
The CDS urged members of the Armed Forces to draw inspiration from the teachings of Christ, emphasizing peace, love, forgiveness, selflessness and purposeful service, while maintaining discipline, professionalism and loyalty to the Constitution. He also called on Nigerians to use the festive period to promote peace, tolerance and unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.
General Oluyede expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to the military, and called for sustained collaboration and unity of effort among sister security agencies.
He wished Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year.
