By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing and supporting one of its illustrious sons, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), who retired on Sunday as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), marking the end of a distinguished military career.
In a statement signed by the MBF National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Luka Binniyat, the Forum expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for granting General Musa, an indigene of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna, the rare opportunity to serve in such an exalted capacity.
“General Musa’s tenure as CDS will be remembered for his courage, humility, and strategic leadership in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” the Forum stated. “His commitment to unity within the armed forces and his efforts to boost troop morale amid complex security challenges earned him the admiration of both his subordinates and Nigerians across divides.”
The MBF described General Musa as a disciplined, professional, and patriotic officer whose leadership exemplified the best values of the Nigerian military. The Forum noted that his service remains an inspiration to young people across the Middle Belt and the country at large.
“We are proud of his achievements and the inspiration he represents to the youth of the Middle Belt and beyond,” the statement added. “We are confident that President Tinubu will continue to draw from General Musa’s vast experience and patriotism in future national defence-related assignments.”
The Forum also congratulated Major General Waidi Shaibu, another distinguished son of the Middle Belt from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, on his appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Highlighting General Shaibu’s impressive record, the MBF commended his leadership as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East, where he played a pivotal role in degrading Boko Haram’s capabilities and leading counter-banditry operations in the North-West.
“His focus on intelligence-led warfare, troop welfare, and civil-military collaboration has significantly enhanced Nigeria’s counterterrorism framework,” the statement noted. “We urge General Shaibu to carry out his new responsibilities with fairness, discipline, and renewed patriotism as the nation looks to him and his team for peace and stability.”
The Forum further congratulated all newly appointed Service Chiefs and prayed for divine wisdom, cooperation, and unity among them in the collective effort to secure Nigeria and strengthen national defence.
