By Miriam Humbe
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede has urged Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace and take ownership of the fight against terrorists to ensure a safe society.
In his Easter message, the CDS encouraged all personnel of the Armed Forces to remain united, vigilant and steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
General Oluyede said that Easter was a sacred season that symbolised sacrifice, courage, hope and the triumph of good over evil, which are values that resonate deeply with the calling and responsibilities of the military profession.
Here’s A Full Text Of The CDS Message:
It is with great pleasure that I extend warm Easter greetings to our Christian faithful and all members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Easter is a sacred season that symbolizes sacrifice, courage, hope and the triumph of good over evil.
Values that resonate deeply with the calling and responsibilities of the military profession.
The ultimate sacrifice demonstrated through the death and resurrection of Christ reminds us that true leadership and service are founded on selflessness, courage and unwavering commitment to a greater cause.
These virtues are reflected daily in the gallant efforts of our officers and men who continue to make immense sacrifices in defence of our nation’s sovereignty and the safety of our citizens.
As we celebrate this solemn occasion, we pay profound tribute to our fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
Their bravery and patriotism remain etched in the history of our nation and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
We also honour the wounded warriors and all personnel currently deployed across various theatres of operations whose resilience and dedication continue to inspire the nation.
Easter equally reminds us of the power of unity, faith and renewed hope.
I therefore call on all personnel of the Armed Forces to remain united, vigilant and steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
Our collective resolve, professionalism and cooperation with other security agencies and communities remain vital to overcoming the security challenges confronting our nation.
To the families of our personnel, particularly those whose loved ones are deployed during this festive period, I express my sincere appreciation for your patience, sacrifice and unwavering support.
Your encouragement strengthens the morale of our troops and contributes immensely to the success of our operations.
On a joyous note, therefore, as we celebrate Easter, let us renew our commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, unity and vigilance.
I also call on all Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace and take ownership of the fight against terrorists in line with whole of society approach that will lead us to success.
Together, with courage and faith, we shall continue to defend our nation and uphold the peace, security and stability of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
May the divine grace of our Lord Jesus and the sweet fellowship of the holy spirit be with all of us now and always.
I wish all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, their families and indeed all Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Easter celebration.
Happy Easter and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
General OO OLUYEDE,
Chief of Defence Staff
April 2026
