CDS Oluyede Felicitates Nigerians, Troops at Christmas, Reaffirms Commitment to Security and Welfare

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Nigerians and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), describing the festive season as a period of love, sacrifice, hope, and national renewal.

In a goodwill message to mark Christmas 2025 and the New Year 2026, General Oluyede called on Nigerians to reflect on the values of unity, shared responsibility, and collective commitment to peace and national development. He commended citizens for their resilience, patriotism, and continued support for the Armed Forces amid the country’s complex security challenges.

The CDS emphasized that trust, cooperation, and synergy between the military and the populace remain vital to achieving lasting peace and security. He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would continue to faithfully discharge their constitutional responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic institutions.

General Oluyede paid special tribute to troops deployed across various operational theatres, praising their courage, professionalism, discipline, and selfless service. He noted that their continued vigilance during the festive period, often at great personal sacrifice, represents the highest traditions of the Armed Forces and deserves the nation’s profound gratitude.

Reaffirming leadership’s commitment to personnel welfare, the CDS stated that troop well-being remains a top priority. He highlighted the Armed Forces’ Military Strategic Philosophy, which focuses on strengthening operational effectiveness through enhanced jointness, improved welfare, sound administration, and a whole-of-government approach. According to him, sustained efforts are being made to improve living and working conditions, including better healthcare, improved accommodation, timely payment of allowances, enhanced welfare packages, and continued support for the families of fallen heroes.

He urged members of the Armed Forces to draw inspiration from the teachings of Christ by embracing peace, love, forgiveness, selflessness, and dedicated service, while upholding discipline, professionalism, and loyalty to the Constitution. He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season to promote peace, tolerance, and unity across ethnic, religious, and cultural divides.

General Oluyede expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to the military. He also called for sustained collaboration among sister security agencies to enhance national security efforts.

The CDS concluded by wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year.

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