Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, says he is leaving the Nigerian Armed Forces with a “clear conscience,” confident that he gave his best in service to the nation.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday during his pull-out parade, General Musa—who has been succeeded by General Olufemi Oluyede—reflected on his decades-long military career, describing it as one defined by commitment and unity.
“As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave it my all,” Musa said. “I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie—of battles fought and triumphs celebrated as one family. The sound of the bugle may change for me, but the soldier’s heart beats on forever.”
The retired general expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as CDS, urging officers and men of the Armed Forces to extend full support to the newly appointed service chiefs.
“I might be retiring from active military service today, but I’m by no means retiring from my love for our dear country, Nigeria,” he stated. “I remain a soldier at heart and a patriot ever loyal to the constitution and sovereignty of our great nation.”
General Musa also emphasized the importance of cooperation among Nigeria’s security agencies and called on citizens to support troops in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
“There is no single institution or organisation that can win this war alone,” he said. “We must synergise, collaborate, and fight together. I appeal to all Nigerians to pray for our troops and security forces so that we can win and ensure Nigeria continues to develop.”
President Tinubu recently reshuffled the nation’s military leadership, appointing General Oluyede—formerly Chief of Army Staff—as the new CDS. Major General Waidi Shaibu was named Chief of Army Staff, alongside new heads for the Air Force and Navy.
The Senate confirmed the appointments earlier this week, and the new service chiefs were decorated with their ranks by the President on Thursday.
