By Emma Kwada
Publisher of TGNews and Kaduna-born journalist, Mr Tom Garba, has lauded the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), describing him as a “titan of valour” whose service to the nation strengthened Nigeria’s military formations and left behind enduring legacies.
Garba, a native of Garun Kurama in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State, in a moving tribute on Saturday, said the retired military chief’s exit from active service marked the end of an era defined by courage, discipline, and patriotism.
“In the storied history of Nigeria’s military, few figures have left as profound an impact as General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), the recently retired Chief of Defence Staff (CDS),” Garba began.
“His departure from active service is not merely the close of a chapter but a moment to celebrate a legacy that has bolstered Nigeria’s fight against insecurity and ignited a flame of hope for future generations.”
He noted that General Musa’s tenure as CDS represented a turning point in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, especially in the fight against Boko Haram, ISIS, and other violent groups threatening national peace.
“Stepping into the role at a time when the nation’s resilience was under severe strain, he brought a blend of strategic genius and unyielding resolve that transformed the military’s approach to these threats. His leadership was a beacon in turbulent times, guiding Nigeria toward stability with a steady hand,” Garba stated.
Garba highlighted Musa’s achievements across several military operations, including Operation Hadin Kai, Operation Safe Haven, Operation Whirl Punch, and Operation Forest Sanity, which he said reshaped Nigeria’s security architecture.
“Under his command, Operation Hadin Kai achieved remarkable success in dismantling Boko Haram and ISWAP enclaves in the North East. Thousands of terrorists were neutralized, hostages were liberated, and critical infrastructure was safeguarded,” he said.
He added that the former CDS combined military precision with community engagement, fostering trust between security forces and civilians and creating a foundation for lasting peace in troubled regions.
According to Garba, General Musa’s leadership style was characterized by innovation, empathy, and a relentless commitment to modernizing the armed forces.
“His frequent visits to frontline units were more than ceremonial — they were heartfelt gestures of solidarity with the men and women who faced danger daily,” he said.
Garba praised Musa’s efforts in fostering collaboration among the various arms of Nigeria’s security architecture, saying his emphasis on inter-agency coordination improved intelligence sharing and response efficiency.
“His establishment of joint task forces and intelligence-sharing platforms revolutionized the military’s ability to respond swiftly to threats. Internationally, he strengthened Nigeria’s partnerships, securing critical support in equipment, training, and intelligence,” Garba noted.
He further extolled the retired CDS for his humility and accessibility, describing him as “a soldier-statesman” whose leadership was marked by compassion and fairness.
“His interactions with junior officers and civilians alike were marked by a warmth that inspired trust and loyalty. Rooted in the values of his hometown, Lere, Kaduna State, he carried the principles of resilience, community, and honor into every aspect of his service,” Garba wrote.
The journalist said General Musa’s vision extended beyond the battlefield as he advocated youth empowerment, job creation, and unity among Nigerians, seeing them as long-term solutions to insecurity.
“His speeches often called for a united Nigeria, where diversity is a source of strength rather than division. In a nation often fractured by politics and ethnicity, his message of unity was a powerful reminder of our shared destiny,” Garba added.
He noted that the relative calm now enjoyed in parts of the North, once plagued by violence, stood as testimony to Musa’s effectiveness as a leader and strategist.
“For me, as a son of Lere, General Musa’s journey is deeply personal. His rise from our shared homeland to the zenith of Nigeria’s military is a testament to the potential within every Nigerian, given determination and purpose,” Garba said.
He described Musa’s retirement not as an end but as a new chapter of influence and service to the nation, adding that his example would continue to inspire generations of soldiers and citizens alike.
“Nigeria salutes you, General Musa. Your service has been a gift, your courage a shield, and your vision a guiding light. From Lere to the nation, I, Tom Garba, say: thank you, sir, for a legacy that will forever illuminate Nigeria’s path,” he concluded.
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