The new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Maj.-Gen. Christopher Musa, has declared that the military would go after terrorists, bandits, and other criminals in full force.

Musa made the vow when he took over the command of the Armed Forces of Nigeria from the erstwhile defence chief, Gen. Lucky Irabor, in Abuja on Friday.

He said the military under his command would go all out to ensure that Nigeria is secured.

He said: “As the CDS, my promise to Nigeria is that we’ll continue to improve on our mandate of sustaining peace and tranquility in our country.

“I will assure every Nigerian to feel safe that the armed forces are up and doing and are highly professional and will be there for them.

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“Nobody should doubt our determination to bring peace to Nigeria and anybody, especially the criminals, bandits, terrorists who think otherwise should be ready to face the music.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces will come out in full force while safeguarding the safety and security of the citizenry.”

Musa also promised to prioritise the welfare of personnel to enable the military get the best from them, saying a soldier that is well-fed and well-taken care of would give his best.

On his part, the former CDS, Irabor, urged his successor to ensure the value and professional standards of the military is upheld.

Irabor said he handed over to a tested and trusted officer who, by all standards a model for the Armed Forces.

He said: “I appreciate the president for finding Maj.-Gen. Musa very suitable to take over the reins of the armed forces.

“I ask that you redouble your efforts so that the cherished values and professional standard be maintained.”

The ex-CDS added that a lot has been achieved, saying he is confident that the Armed Forces are in the right mood to achieve set targets.

The Star