The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), has issued a strong warning to Nigerians who support terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements, declaring that anyone found aiding insecurity in the country will face the full weight of the law.
Musa gave the warning on Saturday during the ceremonial tee-off of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Golf Tournament held at the TYB International Golf Club, Abuja. The event was organised to honour serving and fallen members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
According to the defence minister, individuals who provide support, whether directly or indirectly, to criminal groups are complicit in their crimes and should desist immediately. He stressed that national security cannot be achieved without the cooperation of citizens.
“Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop immediately. The friend of a thief is a thief,” Musa said. He urged law-abiding Nigerians to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies, encouraging them to speak up whenever they notice suspicious activities. “As soon as you see something, say something, so the Armed Forces can take swift action. We are always ready to respond,” he added.
The minister described the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance period as a time to honour the courage and sacrifices of military personnel, particularly those who lost their lives or sustained injuries while defending the nation. He also commended the families of fallen heroes for their strength and resilience.
Musa praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his consistent support for the military and the welfare of personnel and their families. He appealed to Nigerians to continue standing with the Armed Forces, noting that security is a collective responsibility.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, emphasised that security is everybody’s business and called for increased public cooperation. He applauded the professionalism and bravery of the armed forces and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to improving troop welfare.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour both serving and fallen Nigerian military personnel.
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