The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned Nigerians and others who aid terrorists, bandits, insurgents and other criminal elements to desist immediately, saying the Federal Government has given security agencies a clear mandate to act decisively against such collaborators.
General Musa issued the warning on Saturday while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 Golf Tournament held at the TYB Golf Resort and Country Club, Yar’Adua Barracks, Abuja.
He urged Nigerians to sustain their support for 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 security agencies and work for peace,” the minister said. “Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop forthwith.
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“As the saying goes, the friend of a thief is a thief. If we get to the battlefield and you are among them, whatever happens to them happens to you. It is therefore important for good Nigerians to provide necessary information to security agencies.”
The defence minister explained that the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day was designed not only to honour fallen heroes but also to appreciate serving personnel and their families for the sacrifices they continue to make for the nation.
“The significance is to ensure that members of the Armed Forces are not forgotten, that their sacrifices are appreciated, including the families of those who have passed on,” he said.
He added that the event was also meant to encourage serving personnel and reassure them of national support, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said President Tinubu had given the Armed Forces a clear mandate to ensure peace and security across Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that timely information could help prevent attacks and save lives.
“As soon as you see something, say something, so that action can be taken,” Oluyede said. “The Armed Forces are always ready to react. Security is everybody’s business, and Nigerians must support their Armed Forces to make the country safer.”
The Chief of Defence Staff thanked Nigerians for their continued support, acknowledging the sacrifices of military personnel in safeguarding the nation.
Earlier, 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 disclosed that more than 100 golfers were participating in the event and described the involvement of the golfing community as a privilege in honouring the Armed Forces.
