‘Nigeria worth fighting for’: Musa tells soldiers in emotional farewell

The immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), says Nigeria is a nation worth fighting for, urging soldiers to remain steadfast in their commitment to national security.

Musa made the call during an emotional Pulling-Out Parade in his honour after a 39-year military career in Abuja on Friday, October 31, 2025.

The former CDS reflected on his journey, describing his service to the nation as the greatest honour of his life.

“This parade today is not just a ceremony; it marks the culmination of a career dedicated to the protection and unity of our beloved country,” he said.

Musa expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, who appointed him to the position in 2023, for the trust and opportunity to serve.

Musa also acknowledged the tireless efforts of his fellow military leaders and Nigerians in supporting the nation’s security.

While bidding farewell to his military uniform, Musa shared a heartfelt tribute to his family, particularly his wife, and children, who he said bore the brunt of his long absences and constant concerns for his safety.

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“You are the unsung heroes of my service, and I owe you a debt of love that can never be fully repaid,” he said.

Musa urged the men and women of the armed forces to continue serving with the same dedication, loyalty, and professionalism he said had defined his career, stressing that the victory of the Nigerian military was not just temporary but enduring.

He called for greater unity and collaboration among Nigeria’s security agencies, stressing that “no single institution can win this fight alone”.

He specifically acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA), and other security agencies, whose support, he said, was crucial to the successes of the military over the years.

Musa also thanked Nigerians for their resilience, especially the nation’s youth, whose prayers and belief in a better future, he said, were the driving forces behind the military’s efforts.

The former CDS stated: “I remain a soldier at heart, a patriot committed to the sovereignty of Nigeria.

“This may be the end of my active service, but I will continue to serve in whatever way I can.”

The Star