By Abiola Olawale
The immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Retired General Christopher Musa, has formally concluded his distinguished 39-year military career, declaring he is leaving the Nigerian Armed Forces with a “clear conscience.”
Speaking at a Pulling-Out Parade in Abuja on Friday, General Musa reassured the nation that Nigeria’s security remains in capable hands.
The former Defence Chief, who was recently succeeded in a major security shake-up, emphasized that his long service was marked by accountability and a commitment to the nation’s stability.
He said: “As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave it my all. 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.”
He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for appointing him, asking troops to give support to the new service chiefs who were appointed earlier in the month in what the presidency described as part of moves to tighten Nigeria’s security architecture.
General Musa said even in retirement, his loyalty to the country is unalloyed.
“I might be retiring from active military service today, but I’m by no means retiring from my love for our dear country, Nigeria. I remain a soldier at heart and a patriot ever loyal to the constitution and sovereignty of our great nation,” the Kaduna-born general said.
“Once again, I appreciate Mr President for the opportunity to serve as the Chief of Defence Staff for two years plus. It has been a great honour and I don’t take that for granted,” he added.
Last week, Tinubu reshuffled the country’s military hierarchy, replacing Musa, whom he appointed in June 2023, with Olufemi Oluyede (a former Chief of Army Staff).
He also appointed Waidi Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff while naming new heads for the Air Force and the Navy.
The Senate confirmed the service chiefs earlier this week. They were decorated with new ranks by Tinubu on Thursday.
