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By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
Nigeria’s immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Gwabin Musa has formally drew the curtain after a distinguished 39-years military career, leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, integrity, and unwavering patriotism.
The pulling-out parade, held in his honour, symbolized the end of nearly four decades of service in the nation’s defence architecture, but for General Musa, it was far more than a ceremony — it was, in his words, “a sacred military tradition marking the end of a journey of service and the beginning of a new chapter.”
“As the echo of the final march past fades away and the colours are trooped for the last time in my honour, I stand before you with a profound sense of gratitude,” Musa said, his voice steady with emotion. “I am humbled by the incredible privilege it has been to serve our great nation in the noble profession of arms.”
General Musa, who led the Armed Forces during one of Nigeria’s most challenging security eras, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the trust reposed in him as Chief of Defence Staff, and to the men and women of the military who, he said, “stood as the true heroes of our nation.”
He paid glowing tribute to his family his wife and children, whom he described as “the fortress and sanctuary that bore the burden of long absences and the anxiety of deployments.”
Turning to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Musa’s words were both a salute and a charge:
“I have walked among the giants. I have witnessed your courage in the face of danger, your resilience in the harshest conditions, and your unflinching loyalty to Nigeria. Never lose faith. Remain steadfast in duty, uphold the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and selfless service. Nigeria is a nation worth fighting for.”
He also commended the Nigerian people, particularly the youth for their resilience and faith in the Armed Forces, as well as the media and other security agencies for their cooperation in advancing national security.
In a tone that blended humility with pride, the retired General declared:
“As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all. The sound of the bugle may change for me, but the soldier’s heart beats on. I may be retiring from active service, but I am not retiring from my love for Nigeria.”
The event, organized under the leadership of the new Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, featured a colourful parade, salute to the colours, and the ceremonial final drive past — hallmarks of military tradition reserved for only the most distinguished officers.
Musa’s parting words reflected the spirit of a man whose service transcended duty:
“Long live the Nigerian Armed Forces. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
With his departure, a chapter closes in Nigeria’s defence history — one defined by resilience, reform, and unshakable faith in the unity of the nation.
