Military central to Nigeria’s stability, survival – Defence minister

The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, says the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain central to the country’s stability, unity and survival.

Musa said this Saturday night in Abuja, at the Gala Night and 40th Anniversary Reunion of the Short Service Combatant Course 27 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

The minister who was represented by retired Maj.-Gen. Bala Isandu, celebrated the alumni for decades of service in defence of the nation.

He urged serving and retired officers to sustain professionalism, unity and operational discipline.

According to him, the complexity of current security threats requires stronger cohesion across all levels of command.

He described members of Course 27 as part of a “special brotherhood forged in sacrifice”.

He noted that their contributions had remained visible in counterinsurgency, peace support operations and internal security across the country.

Musa commended their resilience and commitment, adding that many had risen to strategic leadership positions in the Armed Forces and other sectors of national development.

In his goodwill message, retired Maj.-Gen. John Malu, described the reunion as a deeply fulfilling experience, noting that the journey since 1986 had been marked by shared sacrifices, growth, and enduring friendship.

Malu said many members had gone on to serve in different capacities, with some retiring early and others reaching the peak of their careers.

He said that the bond formed at the academy had remained strong over the decades.