Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, has issued a stern warning to individuals and networks providing support to terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups, declaring that the era of impunity is over and that anyone found aiding violent groups will face the full weight of the law.
Musa delivered the warning on Saturday in Abuja during the ceremonial tee-off of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Golf Tournament at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Club.
The minister said security agencies had stepped up efforts to track and dismantle not only armed groups but also the civilian networks that sustain them through funding, logistics, intelligence and shelter.
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He stressed that anyone who continues to collaborate with bandits, insurgents or terrorists in 2026 would be treated as a direct accomplice to crime.
“There will be no business as usual for those supporting criminals. Those who are still supporting bandits, insurgents and terrorists should stop immediately.
“The friend of a thief is a thief. If you are aiding these people in any way, you are part of the crime”, Musa said.
He called on law-abiding Nigerians to intensify cooperation with the Armed Forces by providing timely and credible intelligence, saying early information often makes the difference between preventing an attack and responding after lives have been lost.
“As soon as you see something, say something, so the Armed Forces can take swift action. We are always ready to respond,” he added.
The defence minister also used the occasion to underline the deeper significance of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, describing it as a solemn period to honour soldiers who have died in service as well as those who continue to bear the scars of war.
“This period allows us to celebrate both those who are serving and those who have passed on. It is important to honour their sacrifices and to let our troops know that Nigerians stand with them. Together, we will succeed,” Musa said.
He appealed to citizens across the country to remain vigilant and supportive of the military, stressing that national security cannot be achieved by uniformed personnel alone but requires a shared sense of responsibility, patriotism and cooperation from the public.
Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), reinforced that message, telling participants that the fight against insecurity depends heavily on public trust and collaboration.
According to him, while the Armed Forces have made significant efforts, more cooperation is needed to fully secure the country.
“Security is everybody’s business. We appreciate Nigerians for their support over the years, but we need even more cooperation to fully achieve our mandate,” Oluyede said.
He also paid tribute to military personnel deployed across the country, praising their courage and professionalism in difficult and often dangerous conditions.
“It is not easy to go out there and sacrifice your life so that others can live in peace. We value their services and remain committed to improving their welfare,” the CDS added.
Earlier, Nichols Achinze, Club Captain of the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Club, welcomed more than 100 golfers who turned out for the tournament.
He said the competition was one of several activities lined up to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Achinze explained that the ceremonial tee-off symbolised the official launch of the tournament, which would run throughout the day and end with an evening presentation ceremony, bringing together military personnel, veterans and civilians in a show of solidarity with the Armed Forces.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour both fallen and serving members of the Nigerian military.
