Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen Oluyede
Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen Oluyede

Keep strict control on country’s defence, security, COAS tells military personnel

… Says personnel welfare is his priority

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede,
has urged active service men and women of the Nigerian Army and sister services to keep a tight rein on the country’s defence and security.

He stressed that the sacrifices being made by them today are to secure the future of generations yet unborn.

The COAS gave the instruction in his goodwill message to officers, soldiers, and their families on the occasion of the Armed Forces and Remembrance Day Celebration (AFRDC) 2025.

He urged all personnel to emulate the virtues of their predecessors, remain committed to their oath of allegiance, and continue to tackle security challenges with resilience and loyalty, adding that only with noble and selfless service will they inspire hope of a brighter future for the nation.

General Oluyede reaffirmed the commitment of the current administration under his watch to the welfare and well-being of troops and their families, assuring that it is preeminent in his agenda.

The Director Army Public Relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said in a statement that in the good massage, COAS acknowledged the supreme sacrifice made by fallen heroes; gallant men and women, who defended Nigeria’s unity, peace, and stability with their lives.

He pointed out that the celebration is earmarked to honour the dead and living heroes and heroines, as well as serving and retired personnel in recognition of their outstanding bravery and valour.

He also recognized the contributions of veterans who fought to procure the peace and harmony the nation enjoys, emphasizing the importance of embracing understanding and peace in the face of diversity and ideological differences.

The Army Chief congratulated service veterans and their families for being part of history, as well as active service personnel who continue to safeguard the nation’s defence and security. “The acts of bravery and gallantry of the majority may never make it into history books, but you will be written in the hearts and minds of humanity”, the COAS averred.