The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, has extended warm Eid El-Fitr greetings to personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and Nigerians at large, called for sustained unity, discipline and commitment to national security.
In a goodwill message marking the 2026 Eid El-Fitr celebration, General Oluyede expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. He urged officers, soldiers, ratings, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff of the AFN to uphold the virtues of piety, honesty, tolerance, compassion and peace imbibed during the fasting period.
The CDS noted that the sacred month of Ramadan offered an opportunity for spiritual reflection, sacrifice and charity, stressing that such values are critical to strengthening cohesion within the military and fostering national unity.
Highlighting the sacrifices of the Armed Forces, Oluyede paid tribute to fallen heroes who died in the line of duty, as well as personnel currently bearing injuries sustained in various operations. He assured that their courage and selflessness would never be forgotten, reaffirming the military’s commitment to their welfare and well-being.
At a time when Nigeria faces evolving security challenges, the defence chief charged troops across all theatres of operations to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic and courageous. He emphasized the need to consolidate joint operations nationwide, enhance inter-agency synergy and maintain a professional posture capable of addressing emerging threats.
Oluyede also reassured personnel of ongoing efforts to improve administrative support, strengthen operational capabilities and create a conducive environment for effective service delivery in line with global best practices.
The CDS called on Nigerians to continue supporting the military, noting that national security is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation among government institutions, communities and citizens.
He further expressed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his sustained support to the military, particularly in enhancing defence capabilities, operational resources and personnel welfare.
General Oluyede wished all military personnel and Nigerians a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Fitr celebration, urged citizens to remain united in the collective pursuit of peace, stability and national development.
