Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has delivered a powerful warning to individuals aiding criminal elements, declaring that "the friend of a thief is a thief." He stated that anyone found supporting terrorists, insurgents, or bandits will face the same consequences as the combatants on the battlefield.
A Stern Warning to Terrorist Financiers and Collaborators
The minister issued this strong caution on Saturday, January 10, 2026, while serving as the Special Guest of Honour at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 Golf Tournament. The event was held at the TYB Golf Resort and Country Club within the Yar’Adua Barracks in Abuja.
General Musa emphasized that the Federal Government has given security agencies a clear mandate to act decisively against all threats to national peace. He called on all Nigerians to rally behind the military and other security operatives in their vital work.
"I call on all Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and security agencies and work for peace," Musa urged. "Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop forthwith."
He left no room for ambiguity regarding the fate of collaborators, stating, "If we get to the battlefield and you are among them, whatever happens to them happens to you." The Defence Minister stressed the critical importance of citizens providing timely and actionable intelligence to security forces to aid their operations.
Honouring Sacrifice and Ensuring National Support
Beyond the security warning, General Musa highlighted the deeper significance of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He explained that the occasion serves a dual purpose: to honour fallen heroes and to acknowledge the immense sacrifices made by serving personnel and their families.
"The significance is to ensure that members of the Armed Forces are not forgotten, that their sacrifices are appreciated, including the families of those who have passed on," he stated.
The minister added that such events also aim to boost the morale of currently serving troops, reassuring them of the nation's gratitude and backing. He pointed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment to improving the welfare and operational capacity of the military.
Military Leadership Echoes Call for Public Vigilance
In his own remarks at the tournament, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, reinforced the minister's message. He confirmed that President Tinubu has given the Armed Forces a direct order to uphold peace and security across every part of Nigeria.
General Oluyede made a direct appeal to the public for cooperation, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility. "As soon as you see something, say something, so that action can be taken. The Armed Forces are always ready to react," he advised.
He stressed that prompt reporting of suspicious activities can prevent attacks and save countless lives, concluding, "Security is everybody’s business, and Nigerians must support their Armed Forces to make the country safer." The Defence Chief also expressed appreciation for the ongoing support Nigerians have shown the military.
Brigadier General Nichols Ashinze, the Captain of the TYB Golf Club, noted that the golf tournament was one of several events lined up to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. He mentioned that over 100 golfers participated, viewing the inclusion of the sporting community as a meaningful way to pay tribute to the nation's servicemen and women.
