Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has issued a strong and unequivocal warning to individuals providing support to terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements across the nation. He declared that such actions must cease immediately or the perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law.
Final Warning Issued at Armed Forces Event
The Minister delivered this stern message on Saturday, January 10, 2026, during the ceremonial tee-off of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Golf Tournament. The event was held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Club in Abuja.
Musa stated emphatically that the new year would not be business as usual for those aiding and abetting the nation's enemies. "Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop immediately," he commanded. He reinforced his point with a popular adage, noting that "the friend of a thief is a thief."
A Call for Public Vigilance and Cooperation
In his address, the Defence Minister made a direct appeal to all law-abiding citizens, urging them to play an active role in national security. He called for the provision of timely intelligence to the military and security agencies.
"As soon as you see something, say something, so the Armed Forces can take swift action. We are always ready to respond," Musa assured the public. He framed security as a collective responsibility that demands vigilance, cooperation, and patriotic commitment from every Nigerian.
The Minister also used the occasion to honour the nation's military personnel. He described the annual Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as a period to pay tribute to both fallen heroes and those injured in the line of duty.
"It is important to honour their sacrifices and to let our troops know that Nigerians stand with them. Together, we will succeed," he affirmed.
Military Leadership Echoes Call for Unity
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, who also addressed participants at the golf event, highlighted the critical importance of public cooperation in achieving lasting security.
"Security is everybody's business. We appreciate Nigerians for their support over the years, but we need even more cooperation to fully achieve our mandate," the CDS stated. He commended the armed forces for their courage and professionalism, acknowledging the difficulty of their service.
Earlier, Brigadier-General Nichols Achinze, the Club Captain, welcomed over 100 golfers to the tournament. He explained that the event was part of a series of activities marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026. The ceremonial tee-off symbolically launched the day-long tournament, which concluded with an evening presentation ceremony.
