Odita Sunday 
The Chief of Defence Staff, Oluwaseyi Oluyede, has felicitated with officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and Nigerians at large on the occasion of the 2026 Eid El-Fitr celebration.
In a goodwill message to mark the end of Ramadan,Oluyede, expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the holy month, describing it as a period of prayer, sacrifice, charity, and self-discipline.
“It is with profound gratitude to the Almighty God that I felicitate with the officers, soldiers, ratings, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid El-Fitr celebration,” he said.
He urged personnel to uphold the virtues imbibed during Ramadan, including the fear of God, honesty, tolerance, compassion, peace, and mutual support.
“These values remain essential not only for personal growth but also for strengthening the bonds of unity within our Armed Forces and across our nation,” he added.
The defence chief acknowledged the sacrifices made by troops in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, noting that some personnel had paid the supreme price while others continue to bear injuries sustained in the line of duty.
“Their courage and selflessness will never be forgotten and we remain deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment,” he said.
Oluyede stressed that at a critical stage of national development, security and stability remain vital for sustaining democratic institutions and enabling citizens to pursue their aspirations.
He called on troops across various theatres of operations to remain disciplined, resilient, patriotic, and courageous in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“The evolving security environment requires that we consolidate joint operations across the geopolitical zones, enhance operational synergy, and maintain a professional posture capable of mitigating emerging threats,” he stated.
He assured personnel that their welfare remains a priority, adding that efforts would continue to improve administrative support and operational capabilities.
The CDS also called on Nigerians to support the military in addressing security challenges, noting that national defence requires a collective effort.
“The defence of our country is a collective responsibility that requires the cooperation of government institutions, communities, and citizens,” he said.
Oluyede expressed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continued support to the military.
“This commitment is evident in the sustained enhancement of defence capabilities, operational resources and personnel welfare,” he added.
He wished all personnel of the Armed Forces and Nigerians a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Fitr celebration.
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