…calls for change of security narratives in 2025
By Nkechi Eze
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has extended warm wishes to members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on the occasion of Christmas 2024, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. He acknowledged the significance of Christmas as a symbol of hope, love, and togetherness, urging Christian personnel to reflect on these values during the celebrations.
In a statement made available to newsmen by the Director of Information Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS asserted that the birth of Jesus Christ was evidently the heralding of good tidings and hope to the hopeless. He therefore called on the Christian faithful in the AFN to use this period of Christmas for introspection and sober reflection of the immeasurable love of God to us as individuals as well as members of our families. Equally, he called on Nigerians to abide by the teachings of love, forgiveness and togetherness as exemplified by our Lord Jesus Christ.
The year has been eventful, dotted with few incidences but despite all these, Almighty God has been gracious and merciful unto us, as we are alive to witness another Christmas celebration. We do remember with heavy heart that some of our colleagues who started the year with us, lost their lives in the process of keeping our nation safe from all forms of insecurity occasioned by the activities of terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors. As a mark of respect to our colleagues who paid the supreme price, the CDS urged our troops to ensure the year 2025 is defined by positive changes in the security narratives in all our theatres of operations.
General Musa also acknowledged with sense of pride, our troops resilience, and highly impressive will to fight in various theatres of operations across the nation. He salutes their courage and sacrifices in securing the lives and prosperity of our dear nation. He further assured that the AFN would continue to align with the,Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR while pledging the military unalloyed loyalty to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Defence Chief urged the Armed Forces of Nigeria and all security agencies to remain alert and dedicated to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians. He also issued a warning to subversive elements and enemies of the state, cautioning them against taking any negative actions during the festive season. In conclusion, he extended his warmest wishes to members of the AFN, security agencies, and all Nigerians, wishing them a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
