The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has congratulated Nigerians and members of the Armed Forces on the celebration of Christmas, while pledging improved welfare and better working conditions for military personnel.
In a Christmas message released on Wednesday, Oluyede called for unity, peaceful coexistence and renewed commitment to national development.
He assured officers and soldiers that their welfare remains a major focus of the Armed Forces leadership.
“Let me reassure our personnel that their welfare remains a top priority and main focus of the leadership of the Armed Forces,” the defence chief said.
Oluyede explained that ongoing efforts are aimed at improving living and working conditions, healthcare services, accommodation and the timely payment of allowances. He also said support for the families of fallen personnel would continue.
“We are firmly committed to improving the living and working conditions of our personnel and their families through enhanced welfare packages, improved healthcare delivery, better accommodation, timely payment of allowances and sustained support for the families of our fallen heroes,” he added.
The CDS paid tribute to troops deployed across different theatres of operation, praising their courage, discipline and professionalism, especially during the festive season.
He said Nigerians owe frontline soldiers deep gratitude for their sacrifices in defending the country.
Oluyede also thanked Nigerians for their support and resilience despite the country’s security challenges, stressing that cooperation between the military and the public is key to lasting peace.
“To the good people of Nigeria, I express my profound appreciation for your resilience, patriotism and continued support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.
“In spite of the multifaceted security challenges confronting our nation, your steadfast belief in the Nigerian project remains a vital source of strength and motivation to our troops.”
He added that trust and cooperation between citizens and the military are essential for national security.
“The trust, cooperation and synergy between the military and the citizenry are indispensable to the attainment of sustainable peace and security,” Oluyede said, assuring that the Armed Forces would remain committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and democratic institutions.
Speaking on the meaning of Christmas, the defence chief described the season as one of love, sacrifice, hope and renewal, urging both military personnel and civilians to reflect on shared values.
“As we celebrate this season of goodwill, I urge all members of the Armed Forces to reflect on the teachings of Christ which express peace, love, forgiveness, selflessness and purposeful service,” he said.
He called on officers and soldiers to remain disciplined, professional and loyal to the Constitution, while upholding honour, integrity and service to the nation.
Oluyede also appealed to Nigerians to use the festive period to promote peace, tolerance and unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines, noting that Nigeria’s diversity remains a strength.
The CDS thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces and called for sustained collaboration among security agencies, as troops remain engaged in operations across the country.
