Bomba Dauda
A cross-section of Nigerians at home and abroad have continued to pour encomiums on the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, following his exit from office. Among those who paid tribute to the gallant officer isthe former President of ZUMUNTA Association, a U.S. -based humanitarian organisation, Mr. Philip Moses, who commended the retired General for his unwavering patriotism, courage, and distinguished service to the nation.
In a statement made available to newsmen, Moses described General Musa as “a gallant soldier and a top military brass whose leadership, discipline, and loyalty to Nigeria remain unquestionable.”
He recalled watching General Musa’s career “from a distance and from a foreign land,” noting that since his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he had demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication in leading Nigeria’s armed forces through some of the nation’s toughest security challenges.
“Your career rise to the rank of a General and Chief of Defence Staff was merited and well-deserved,” Moses said, adding that General Musa’s patriotism reminds him of former U.S. President and General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who led the Allied forces during World War II before becoming America’s Commander-in-Chief.
According to him, General Musa displayed “similar virtues of bravery and toughness in combating kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism across the country—from Maiduguri to every corner of Nigeria.”
He further lauded the former CDS for his leadership in reshaping the Nigerian Armed Forces and his pivotal role in the nation’s prolonged battle against insurgency, particularly against Boko Haram and other security threats that have plagued the country for over two decades.
“Even though the tide of politics has brought your tenure to an end while the ovation is loudest, you bow out honorably with the applause of a grateful nation,” he said. “The heavens will bear witness—you have served faithfully and with distinction.”
As he transitions into retirement, Moses encouraged the General to take pride in his achievements and continue to contribute to national development. “You may be retired, but not tired,” he remarked, recalling his father’s words as a veteran soldier: “Old soldiers never die.”
“General Musa remains a patriot to the core—a man whose name will be remembered for his courage, integrity, and service to Nigeria,” Moses concluded.
