1. It is with great pleasure that I felicitate with all officers and men of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on this solemn occasion of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2024. As we all know, this event is conducted annually to commemorate the unwavering commitment and heroism demonstrated by our nation’s servicemen and women in various military operations. Additionally, this day holds great significance as it provides us the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, bravery and commitment of our fallen heroes in defending the territorial integrity of our country. We remember and pay our collective tribute to them for their sacrifices not just today, but every day as they gave ‘their today’ for ‘our tomorrow’.
2. On this special occasion, let me also honour and acknowledge the immeasurable contributions of our gallant officers and men both serving and retired. Your selfless dedication to service in protecting our nation’s freedom and security have resulted in the relative peace which we enjoy today. I assure of my unremitting support as you continue to uphold our values of respect for the rule of law, professionalism, loyalty to constituted authority, discipline, selfless service and courage. For those who have suffered one form of injury or the other, we appreciate you and we will continue to pray for your quick recovery. Similarly, for those who have passed on, we thank you for your great sacrifices. Always remember that all your efforts and steadfast devotion in defence of our democracy and national unity in line with our constitutional roles will never be in vain.
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3. Furthermore, as we reflect on the gains achieved so far, I charge you to remain resolute in defeating all forms of security threats so as to ensure enduring peace and security in every area of our dear nation. On my own part, I will continue to prioritize your welfare while steering the affairs of the armed forces in line with my leadership philosophy which is “To Nurture a Professional Armed Forces of Nigeria that is People Centric, Capable of Meeting its Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint and Collaborative Environment”. I therefore urge you to continue to remain vigilant and uncompromising in the discharge of your constitutional responsibilities.
4. Worthy of note, our profound gratitude goes to His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his numerous and timely support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria. I assure Mr President of our unalloyed loyalty and commitment in defending our nation’s democratic values whilst ensuring peace and cohesion in the country. Similarly, let me appreciate our esteemed families, particularly our spouses, for their inestimable roles in keeping the home front whenever duty beckons on us. Your untold sacrifices as a result of our prolonged absence have been impactful and productive. This is evident in the qualitative outputs of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in their respective areas of national assignment. While appreciating you in this regard, I implore you to sustain your efforts in ensuring that our homes remain peaceful.
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5. On this note, let me once again congratulate all my gallant officers and men on this auspicious and significant occasion. I wish you all a successful Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2024. God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
General CG Musa
Chief of Defence Staff
14th January 2023
