General Christopher Musa (retd.), the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, announced on Friday that he was leaving office “with a clear conscience,” having given his all to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the battle against insecurity.
Musa stated at his pull-out parade in Abuja that he served the country with dedication and responsibility during his nearly four decades in the military.
“As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all. I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie—of battles fought and triumphs celebrated as one family. The sound of the bugle may change for me, but the soldier’s heart beats on forever,” he said.
Musa thanked President Bola Tinubu for naming him Chief of Defence Staff, calling the chance an honor he did not take for granted.
He promised to remain faithful to Tinubu and the country even after retirement.
“I might be retiring from active military service today, but I’m by no means retiring from my love for our dear country, Nigeria.
“I remain a soldier at heart and a patriot ever loyal to the constitution and sovereignty of our great nation. Once again, I appreciate Mr. President for the opportunity to serve as the Chief of Defence Staff for two years plus,” he said.
The retired defense chief emphasized that the fight against instability necessitates greater collaboration among security and intelligence services, emphasizing that the military cannot succeed alone.
He also urged Nigerians to continue praying for troops on the front lines, stating that the gains recorded thus far were the result of joint effort.
“I want to state this clearly, that there is no single institution, no single organization that can win this war alone.
“We must synergize, we must collaborate, we must fight together, and I appeal to all Nigerians to pray for our troops, to pray for our security forces so that we can win—and together we shall succeed. Nigeria shall continue to develop,” he said.
Musa welcomed his replacement, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other service leaders, encouraging officers and personnel to show them the same commitment and professionalism.
He also acknowledged his family, referring to them as “unsung heroes” who suffered his extended absences and deployments.
He thanked the media and other security agencies for their continued support of the military during his term.
President Bola Tinubu nominated General Musa Chief of Defence Staff on June 19, 2023, as part of a significant shake-up in the country’s security hierarchy.
His departure comes as General Oluyede formally takes over as Chief of Defence Staff on Thursday.
