By Samue Solomon
Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retired), has said Nigeria was currently facing trial as a result of the myriads of security challenges across multiple fronts but assured that the nation would overcome.
The minister stated this just as a clergyman, Most Rev. Uche Dan Okafor, appealed to members of the armed forces of Nigeria not to think of toppling democratically elected government in Nigeria like their counterparts in other West African countries.
“Yes we have threats of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal endeavours but we have the armed forces, the police security agencies that are committed, resilient and have sacrificed so much take on these challenges and we shall overcome,” the minister said.
Both spoke at the thanksgiving interdenominational church service held in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day ceremony at the National Christian Centre.
The minister said: “Today is a moment of worship, a moment of reflection, and a moment of remembrance. My dear brethren, we have gathered here at the National Christian Centre and in churches across the 36 states of the federation as a people of hope and purpose, trusting in the promise of God as recorded in Jeremiah 29:11.
“We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who have paid the supreme price in service to our beloved country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Their names are permanently etched in the history of our nation and in the hearts of grateful Nigerians.
“We also celebrate those who continue to serve with courage, loyalty, and dedication, as well as their spouses and families.
“To the spouses especially, we commend you for holding the home front with strength and dignity. I assure you that your welfare and well-being remain a priority, and you will not be forgotten.”
The minister said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was committed to ensuring that our Armed Forces and other security agencies are adequately equipped, properly motivated, and well taken care of, to enable them discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively and professionally.
“His actions speak volumes about the value he places on service and sacrifice. We pray that Almighty God continues to grant him wisdom, strength, and guidance as he leads our great nation.”
The Minister also thanked the members of the Armed Forces and security agencies for their resilience in keeping the country safe.
On his part, the Clergyman, Rev Okafor who gave the sermon, specifically asked the Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede and service chiefs not to truncate democracy but rather stand in defence of democracy in the country
