The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has warned individuals providing support to terrorists, bandits, insurgents and other criminal groups to desist immediately, stating that the Federal Government has empowered security agencies to take decisive action against them.
The minister issued the warning on Saturday while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Golf Tournament held at the TYB Golf Resort and Country Club, Yar’Adua Barracks, Abuja.
General Musa urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies as they work to restore peace and stability across the country.
“I call on all Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and the security agencies and work for peace,” he said. “Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop forthwith.
“As the saying goes, the friend of a thief is a thief. If you are found among them on the battlefield, whatever happens to them will happen to you. It is therefore important for law-abiding Nigerians to provide timely and useful information to the security agencies.”
The defence minister explained that the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day was not only to honour fallen heroes but also to appreciate serving personnel and their families for their sacrifices to the nation.
He noted that the event also serves to encourage troops currently in service and reassure them of the government’s support, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently shown commitment to the welfare and operational readiness of the Armed Forces.
Also speaking, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said the President had given the Armed Forces a clear mandate to ensure peace and security nationwide.
He appealed to Nigerians to report suspicious activities promptly, stressing that timely information could prevent attacks and save lives.
“Once you see something, say something so that action can be taken,” Oluyede said. “Security is everybody’s responsibility, and Nigerians must support the Armed Forces to make the country safer.”
The Chief of Defence Staff thanked Nigerians for their continued support and acknowledged the sacrifices of military personnel in safeguarding the nation.
Earlier, the Captain of the TYB Golf Club, Brigadier General Nichols Ashinze, said the golf tournament was one of several activities lined up for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. He added that more than 100 golfers were participating, describing the involvement of the golfing community as a privilege in honouring the Armed Forces.
