By Harriet Tornguvan
…“Though I retire, my love for Nigeria remains undiminished,” says outgoing Defence Chief
It was a day filled with emotion, pride, and heartfelt tributes as the Armed Forces of Nigeria held a grand pulling-out parade in honour of one of the most accomplished officers, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, who officially retired after nearly four decades of distinguished military service.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, was marked by pomp, precision, and pageantry a fitting farewell for a soldier whose leadership as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) symbolized discipline, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the unity and security of Nigeria.
In his valedictory address, General Musa spoke with emotion and conviction, urging members of the Armed Forces to “continue to believe in Nigeria,” describing the nation as “worth every sacrifice and struggle.” He expressed deep gratitude to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the military during a defining period in Nigeria’s history.
Reflecting on his 39 years and four months of service, the retired Defence Chief described his journey as one of honour, sacrifice, and divine privilege.
“I have witnessed your raw courage in the face of danger, your resilience under the most demanding conditions, and your unwavering commitment to the unity and peace of our dear country,”
“You are the best of us, and it has been the highest honour of my life to be your comrade and your leader.”
General Musa called on troops to remain steadfast, loyal, and professional, reminding them that “defeat is temporal, but victory is forever.”
He emphasized that the sacred values of loyalty, sacrifice, and selfless service must continue to guide the Armed Forces in their mission to defend the nation.
He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian people especially the youth for their faith and resilience, and lauded the media for its partnership in promoting national unity. He commended the synergy among the Armed Forces and other security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, DSS, NIA, and DIA, describing inter-agency collaboration as critical to sustainable national security.
General Musa paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife and children, whom he described as “the unsung heroes” of his career.
“They bore the burden of my frequent absences and the uncertainty that comes with military service. Their strength made my duty possible.”
Although leaving active service, the retired General reaffirmed his enduring patriotism:
“Though I retire from active service today, I am by no means retiring from my love for our dear country. I remain a soldier at heart and a patriot ever loyal to the Constitution and sovereignty of our great nation.”
As the ceremonial parade reached its climax, the symbolic lowering of the colours and the official pulling-out of General Musa marked the end of an illustrious era — and the beginning of a new chapter in his life of continued service to Nigeria.
General Musa, who leaves behind a legacy built on discipline, integrity, and faith in the Nigerian spirit, dedicated the honour to the men and women of the Armed Forces who continue to defend the nation with courage and honour.
His parting words echoed through the parade ground a message of hope, unity, and unwavering belief:
“Keep believing in Nigeria, because our nation remains worth fighting for.”
Dignitaries at the event included the Minister of Defence, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff, members of the National Assembly, heads of security agencies, captains of industry, traditional rulers, senior military officers both serving and retired, family members, and well-wishers — all gathered to celebrate the end of an era defined by courage and selfless service.
From the solemn march of the guards to the crisp salute of the parade, every display reflected the deep respect and admiration of the military community for General Musa a leader known for his calm authority, moral strength, and strategic brilliance.
