The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has felicitated with Nigerians and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on the occasion of Christmas, calling for unity, peaceful coexistence and renewed commitment to national progress.
In a Christmas message issued on Wednesday, Oluyede assured personnel of the Armed Forces that their welfare remains a top priority of the military leadership.
He said efforts are ongoing to improve the living and working conditions of personnel through enhanced welfare packages, improved healthcare delivery, better accommodation, timely payment of allowances and sustained support for the families of fallen heroes.
“Let me reassure our personnel that their welfare remains a top priority and main focus of the leadership of the Armed Forces,” he said, adding that the military is committed to consolidating its capabilities through enhanced joint operations, improved welfare and sound administration.
The defence chief paid tribute to frontline troops deployed across various theatres of operation, commending their courage, discipline and professionalism, especially during the festive season.
He said the nation owes the troops gratitude for their sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Oluyede also appreciated Nigerians for their resilience, patriotism and continued support for the Armed Forces despite the security challenges confronting the country, stressing that cooperation between the military and the public is critical to achieving sustainable peace and security.
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“The trust, cooperation and synergy between the military and the citizenry are indispensable to the attainment of sustainable peace and security,” he said, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces would remain resolute in defending the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and democratic institutions.
Speaking on the essence of Christmas, the CDS described the season as one of love, sacrifice, hope and renewal, urging military personnel to reflect on the teachings of Christ and remain disciplined, professional and loyal to the Constitution.
He also called on Nigerians to use the festive period to promote peace, tolerance and unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines, noting that the country’s diversity remains its strength.
Oluyede thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support to the Armed Forces and called for continued collaboration among security agencies, as military operations continue in various parts of the country amid ongoing security challenges.