Easter: Defence Chief Urges Unity, Vigilance as Troops Sustain Fight Against Insecurity
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede has called on members of the Armed Forces and Nigerians at large to remain united, vigilant, and committed to national security as the country marks the 2026 Easter celebration.
The message was contained in an Easter goodwill statement issued in April 2026 by General Oluyede.
In the message, the Defence Chief described Easter as a season that reflects the core values of sacrifice, courage, and hope, which he said align closely with the duties of military personnel.
“Easter is a sacred season that symbolizes sacrifice, courage, hope and the triumph of good over evil—values that resonate deeply with the calling and responsibilities of the military profession,” he said.
He noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ serve as a reminder that leadership and service require selflessness and unwavering commitment to a greater cause.
“The ultimate sacrifice demonstrated through the death and resurrection of Christ reminds us that true leadership and service are founded on selflessness, courage and unwavering commitment to a greater cause,” Oluyede stated.
The Defence Chief paid tribute to fallen soldiers who died in the line of duty, assuring that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“We pay profound tribute to our fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. Their bravery and patriotism remain etched in the history of our nation,” he said.
He also commended wounded personnel and troops currently deployed across various theatres of operation, describing their resilience as a source of national inspiration.
Oluyede further urged members of the Armed Forces to remain steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
“I therefore call on all personnel of the Armed Forces to remain united, vigilant and steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities,” he added.
Addressing families of military personnel, particularly those with loved ones on deployment, the Defence Chief expressed appreciation for their continued support.
“Your encouragement strengthens the morale of our troops and contributes immensely to the success of our operations,” he said.
He also called on Nigerians to support security agencies in tackling insecurity through collective effort.
“I call on all Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace and take ownership of the fight against terrorists in line with a whole-of-society approach,” Oluyede urged.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment, he assured that with unity, courage, and faith, the Armed Forces would continue to defend the nation and uphold peace and stability.
“Together, with courage and faith, we shall continue to defend our nation and uphold the peace, security and stability of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
He wished all personnel of the Armed Forces, their families, and Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Easter celebration, adding, “Happy Easter and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
