he Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding members of the Armed Forces carrying out lawful assignments across the country.
He gave the assurance while addressing journalists during a ministerial press briefing on preparations for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration and Remembrance Day, held at the National Defence College in Abuja on Wednesday.
Responding to questions about the reported altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, the Defence Minister said the matter was being thoroughly reviewed by the appropriate authorities. The incident reportedly occurred during a dispute over a parcel of land in Abuja said to be linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd).
Badaru stated that the Ministry of Defence and the Military High Command would ensure that no officer performing official duties within the scope of the law is victimized or exposed to undue harm.
He said, “At the Ministry and indeed within the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers who are on lawful duty. We are already looking into this issue, and I want to assure everyone that any officer legitimately carrying out his responsibilities will be fully protected. No harm will come to anyone who is doing his job and doing it well.”
The Minister’s comments come amid growing public attention on the incident, which has generated debate about inter-agency coordination and respect for military personnel operating in civilian jurisdictions.
He stressed that discipline, professionalism, and adherence to lawful orders remain the cornerstones of military service, and the Ministry would continue to uphold those values while defending the rights of personnel engaged in legitimate operations.
Badaru also used the opportunity to highlight ongoing preparations for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, a national event dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers who lost their lives in service to the nation. He noted that the commemoration serves as both a solemn tribute and a reminder of the collective responsibility to support the welfare of military families.
The Minister reaffirmed that the Defence Ministry remains committed to strengthening morale among troops, ensuring the welfare of service members, and maintaining robust collaboration with civilian authorities to prevent future misunderstandings between security agencies and government officials.
He concluded that respect for law, order, and mutual understanding among institutions remains critical to sustaining national peace and unity.
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