By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has extended warm Easter greetings to Christian faithful and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, urging them to remain united, vigilant and steadfast in the defence of the nation.
In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 Easter celebration, the defence chief described the season as a sacred period that symbolises sacrifice, courage, hope and the triumph of good over evil, values he said strongly reflect the core responsibilities of the military profession.
Oluyede noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ represent the ultimate example of selflessness and service to humanity, stressing that the same virtues are demonstrated daily by Nigerian troops serving across various theatres of operations.
“It is with great pleasure that I extend warm Easter greetings to our Christian faithful and all members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,” he said.
According to him, the Easter message of sacrifice and courage resonates deeply with the calling of military personnel who continually risk their lives to defend the country’s sovereignty and protect its citizens.
“The ultimate sacrifice demonstrated through the death and resurrection of Christ reminds us that true leadership and service are founded on selflessness, courage and unwavering commitment to a greater cause. These virtues are reflected daily in the gallant efforts of our officers and men who continue to make immense sacrifices in defence of our nation’s sovereignty and the safety of our citizens,” he added.
The Chief of Defence Staff also used the occasion to honour fallen service members who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing them as heroes whose patriotism and bravery will remain permanently etched in the nation’s history.
“As we celebrate this solemn occasion, we pay profound tribute to our fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. Their bravery and patriotism remain etched in the history of our nation and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he stated.
He further recognised wounded personnel and troops currently deployed across various operational theatres, commending their resilience, professionalism and unwavering dedication to national security.
Oluyede said the Easter season also highlights the importance of unity, faith and renewed hope, calling on all military personnel to continue discharging their constitutional responsibilities with discipline and professionalism.
“I therefore call on all personnel of the Armed Forces to remain united, vigilant and steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. Our collective resolve, professionalism and cooperation with other security agencies and communities remain vital to overcoming the security challenges confronting our nation,” he said.
The defence chief also expressed appreciation to families of military personnel, particularly those whose loved ones are deployed during the festive period, acknowledging their sacrifices and steadfast support.
“To the families of our personnel, particularly those whose loved ones are deployed during this festive period, I express my sincere appreciation for your patience, sacrifice and unwavering support. Your encouragement strengthens the morale of our troops and contributes immensely to the success of our operations,” he said.
Oluyede also urged Nigerians to support the ongoing fight against terrorism and insecurity by embracing what he described as a “whole-of-society approach” to national security.
“As we celebrate Easter, let us renew our commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, unity and vigilance. I also call on all Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace and take ownership of the fight against terrorists in line with a whole-of-society approach that will lead us to success,” he stated.
He expressed optimism that through courage, faith and collective commitment, Nigeria would overcome its security challenges and continue to uphold peace, security and stability.
The defence chief concluded by wishing personnel of the Armed Forces, their families and all Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Easter celebration.
“May the divine grace of our Lord Jesus and the sweet fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of us now and always. I wish all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, their families and indeed all Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Easter celebration,” he said.
