Immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), on Friday said he left the military with a “clear conscience,” having given his best to the fight against insecurity throughout his service years.
Musa stated this in Abuja during his pull-out parade, marking the end of his nearly 40-year military career.
“As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all,” he said.
“I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie — of battles fought and triumphs celebrated as one family. The soldier’s heart continues to beat in me, even in retirement.”
President Bola Tinubu appointed Musa as CDS on June 19, 2023, as part of a major reorganisation in the nation’s security architecture.
Speaking at the ceremony, the retired defence chief expressed gratitude to Tinubu for what he described as a privilege of service.
“I appreciate Mr President for the opportunity to serve as Chief of Defence Staff. It is an honour I did not take lightly,” he said.
“Though I retire from active service, my loyalty to Nigeria remains unwavering. I remain a patriot committed to the constitution and the sovereignty of our country.”
Musa urged stronger collaboration among security agencies to effectively tackle insecurity, stressing that no single institution can win the battle alone.
“There is no single organisation that can win this war alone,” he said.
“We must synergise, we must collaborate. I appeal to Nigerians to continue praying for the troops. The successes recorded so far have been through collective sacrifice.”
He congratulated his successor, General Olufemi Oluyede, calling on military personnel to support the new leadership with loyalty and professionalism.
Musa also acknowledged his family for their patience during years of postings and deployments, describing them as “the unsung heroes” of his journey.
He further appreciated the media and sister security agencies for their cooperation during his tenure.
General Oluyede officially assumed office as the new Chief of Defence Staff on Thursday.
