After 39 years of duty tour, Gen. Christopher Musa, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, formally bowed out in a pull-out ceremony held in Abuja.
The decorated war hero departs, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security landscape.
The ceremony was a testament to Gen. Musa’s unwavering dedication to the nation.
Persecondnews reports that Musa, in his farewell speech on Friday, expressed deep gratitude to God, the President, and all Nigerians for the opportunity to serve.
“I am humbled by the privilege to have served our great nation, and I can proudly say Nigeria’s security is in capable hands,” Musa said, assuring that the country’s security remains in good hands.
He described the occasion as both emotional and historic, marking the end of a nearly four-decade journey of active duty.
Musa thanked President Bola Tinubu for trusting him to lead the Armed Forces and congratulated his successor and other service chiefs, pledging his continued support.
He urged the armed forces to maintain their loyalty, professionalism, and commitment to national unity, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“This pulling-out parade is not just a ceremony; it marks the end of a journey of service that has lasted 39 years and four months and the beginning of a new chapter in my life.”
He added: “To the men and women of our Armed Forces, you are the true heroes of this nation. I have witnessed your courage in the face of adversity, your resilience in the toughest conditions, and your unwavering devotion to duty.
“Defeat is temporary, but victory is forever. Continue to believe in Nigeria. It is a nation worth fighting for.”
The retired CDS also paid tribute to his family, particularly his wife, Ogogolilia and their children, for their sacrifices and unwavering support throughout his career.
“My family has been my fortress and sanctuary. They endured the long absences, the anxiety, and the weight of uncertainty. They are the unsung heroes of my service,” he said.
He acknowledged the collaboration of other security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, DSS, NIA, and DIA, and stressed the need for continued synergy to ensure national security.
Persecondnews had reported that on October 25, President Tinubu appointed new Service Chiefs.
In a statement by Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Musa was replaced by Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who until the new appointment was Chief of Army Staff.
The changes came barely two week after some news outlets (Not Persecondnews) hinted about alleged plot to topple the government.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged that the Armed Forces will intensify efforts to make Nigeria safer and more secure.
Oluyede is a seasoned officer with a career in the Nigerian Army spanning over three decades.
A graduate of the 39th Regular Course, Oluyede has a wealth of experience in military strategy and command, and he has consistently demonstrated leadership excellence in numerous operations.
Prior to his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and the Defence Chief, he served as the 56th Commander of the Nigerian Army’s elite Infantry Corps, based in Jaji, Kaduna.
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