The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned Nigerians against providing any form of support to terrorists, insurgents, bandits, or criminal networks, stressing that collaborators will face the same fate as those they aid.
General Musa gave the warning on Saturday while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 Golf Tournament held at the TYB Golf Resort and Country Club, Yar’Adua Barracks, Abuja.
He called on citizens to actively support the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the ongoing fight against insecurity, noting that national peace and stability require collective responsibility.
According to him, the Federal Government has given security agencies a firm mandate to decisively confront threats to national security, adding that individuals who shield or assist criminals will not be spared.
“As the saying goes, the friend of a thief is a thief,” Musa said.
“Anyone found aiding bandits, insurgents, or terrorists should desist immediately. If you align yourself with them, you will face the same consequences. Nigerians must provide useful information to security agencies to help protect lives and property.”
The Defence Minister explained that Armed Forces Remembrance Day serves to honour fallen heroes while recognising the sacrifices of serving personnel and their families.
He added that the celebration also reassures officers on active duty of national appreciation and government commitment, pointing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on improving the welfare and operational capacity of the Armed Forces.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said the President has issued clear directives to the military to sustain peace and security across the country.
Oluyede urged Nigerians to promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that early intelligence can prevent attacks and save lives.
“Security is everybody’s business. When you see something, say something. The Armed Forces are always ready to respond, but timely information is critical,” he said.
Also speaking, Brigadier General Nichols Ashinze, Captain of the TYB Golf Club, said the golf tournament was part of activities lined up for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
He disclosed that more than 100 golfers were participating in the event, describing the inclusion of the golfing community as a symbolic gesture of solidarity and appreciation for the Armed Forces and their sacrifices.
