ENUGU, NIGERIA (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has declared that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will “give no quarter” to adversaries threatening the unity, peace and progress of the country.
Oluyede made the declaration in a goodwill message to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), during which he paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes whose sacrifices, he said, secured Nigeria’s freedom and democratic ideals.
He described the devotion of the fallen personnel as a noble expression of patriotism, assuring that their legacies would continue to be honoured by posterity, while also acknowledging the resilience and sacrifices of their families.
The CDS commended troops currently deployed across various theatres of operation for their professionalism, courage and loyalty, noting that their operational successes had continued to strengthen national security.
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According to him, the battle scars borne by personnel remain enduring testimonies of valour and an unyielding commitment to defend Nigeria against both local and trans-border threats.
Oluyede emphasised that troop welfare remains a top priority under his military strategic philosophy, which focuses on enhanced jointness, improved welfare and sound administration to reinforce the Armed Forces’ operational posture through a whole-of-government approach.
He expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his steadfast leadership and support, while assuring Nigerians of the military’s continued commitment to safeguarding democracy, peace and national stability.
The defence chief also urged Nigerians to use the remembrance period to promote unity and reject divisive tendencies, encouraging citizens to wear the remembrance emblem with pride as a symbol of gratitude to fallen heroes and serving personnel.
He prayed for the eternal rest of the departed and reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ resolve to secure a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.