Ex-CDS Christopher Musa and his wife during the Pulling-Out Parade held on Friday in Abuja,. © NAN photo
After nearly four decades in uniform, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (rtd), has assured Nigerians that the nation’s security remains in safe and competent hands.
Speaking during his valedictory remarks at his Pulling-Out Parade held on Friday in Abuja, Gen. Musa described the ceremony as both emotional and historic, marking the close of a 39-year journey of service to Nigeria.
“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 said. “I am humbled by the privilege to have served our great nation, and I can proudly say Nigeria’s security is in capable hands.”
Gen. Musa expressed deep gratitude to God, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and all Nigerians for the opportunity to serve, noting that his career had been defined by commitment to peace, unity, and national stability.
He thanked President Tinubu for trusting him to lead the Armed Forces and congratulated his successor along with other service chiefs, pledging his continued support.
The retired general urged officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces to uphold professionalism, discipline, and loyalty to the nation. He reminded them that protecting the country’s territorial integrity must always remain their top priority.
“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,” he said.
Musa also took time to honor his family—his wife, Ogogolilia, and their children, Kuwait, Yashinbobai, and Indi—appreciating their patience and sacrifice throughout his military journey.
“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 warmly.
He acknowledged the cooperation of other security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, DSS, NIA, and DIA, stressing that synergy among them is vital for the success of national security operations.
“No single institution can win the fight against insecurity alone. We must continue to work together, pray for our troops, and support our security forces so that Nigeria can continue to grow and prosper,” he emphasized.
In his closing remarks, the former CDS extended gratitude to the Nigerian people—especially the youth—for their faith and prayers for a safer nation. He also commended the media for their role in promoting national unity and development.
“As I formally retire my uniform, I am leaving the stage with pride and a clear conscience, having given my all in service to Nigeria. I may be retiring from active service today, but I will never retire from my love for Nigeria. I remain a soldier at heart and a patriot committed to the Constitution and sovereignty of our great nation,” he declared.
Gen. Musa concluded by giving thanks to God for divine protection throughout his career and reaffirmed his readiness to continue contributing to national development in other capacities.
NAN
