Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State General (rtd), Ahmed Lawan, Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence and other top dignitaries on Tuesday hailed the dedication and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military, urging sustained support for the armed forces in safeguarding the nation.
They were speaking in Abuja during the launch of a book, The Military Iconic Leader of Our Time, authored by Christopher Musa, Minister of Defence, which chronicles his contributions to Nigeria’s military and national security landscape.
Gowon, who is the father of the day, praised the professionalism and resilience of Nigerian soldiers, while Lawan reinforced the call for concrete investments in security, emphasising that a safe and protected populace is essential for national development and stability.
The event highlighted Musa’s legacy of military service, leadership excellence, and dedication to national unity.
Gowon reflected on the challenges faced by soldiers and society, praising the professionalism and unwavering commitment of Nigeria’s armed forces.
He also emphasised the critical importance of providing the military with adequate resources and support, underlining that national security is a cornerstone for economic growth and societal stability.
He commended the professionalism and dedication of Nigerian military officers and emphasised the importance of their continued service to the nation.
“You have spent your life in the army and served in various capacities. Your commitment to military service sets an example for the younger generation”, Gowon said
He underscored the critical role of military leadership in maintaining national security and urged sustained support for the armed forces.
Gowon also drew attention to the professional standards observed in allied military institutions abroad, praising the Nigerian military for adopting best practices while maintaining a strong national identity.
On his part, Lawan stressed the importance of investing in security and providing necessary resources for operational effectiveness, noting that “safety and protection are prerequisites for economic growth and national development.”
He expressed optimism about the country’s security outlook, asserting that coordinated efforts could significantly reduce current security challenges within a year and largely mitigate emergencies by 2030.
Yahaya Guregi of the World Sustainable Development Goal Organisation (WSDGO) in his opening remarks, emphasized the broader significance of the gathering.
He noted that the celebration went beyond individual achievements to honour a journey defined by dedication, national unity, and the pursuit of a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
“True strength is measured not only by performance but by the impact on people,” Guregi said, praising General Musa’s leadership as an exemplar of service and sacrifice.
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Mohammed Mohamed, Book reviewer, described the 255-page publication as a meticulous record of Musa’s career and strategic vision.
According to him, the text details his rise through the military ranks, extensive training, and leadership roles, including Commander-in-Chief of the Northern National Joint Task Force and Technical Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation.
He said it also highlights his international military engagements, from academies in the Soviet Union to operational collaborations in Sierra Leone, illustrating his commitment to professional excellence and strategic foresight.
Mohamed emphasised that the book presents the human dimension of military leadership, showcasing General Musa’s dedication to troop welfare, ethical conduct, and community engagement.
“It documents his efforts to restore economic activity and social cohesion in previously conflict-affected regions, winning the trust and confidence of citizens while upholding international humanitarian standards”, Mohamed noted.
Others who spoke praised the book as both a historical record and a guide to leadership.
They also highlighted the importance of global collaboration in military and academic development, referencing contributions from institutions such as the National Research and Technology University of Russia.
Soeakers also noted that Musa’s career represents more than a record of military achievements, adding that it serves as a model for leadership, ethical governance, and social responsibility in Nigeria and beyond.
