‘Friend Of Thief Is Thief’ – Defence Minister Warns Terrorism Sponsors To Steer Clear

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has issued a stern warning to those who provide support to terrorists, bandits, insurgents and other criminal elements to desist immediately.

Speaking at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 in Abuja, General Musa declared that the Federal Government has given security agencies a clear mandate to act decisively against them.

He appeared to Nigerians to keep supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.

“I call on all Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and security agencies and work for peace. Those who are still supporting bandits, criminals, insurgents and terrorists should stop forthwith.

“As the saying goes, the friend of a thief is a thief. If we get to the battlefield and you are among them, whatever happens to them happens to you. It is therefore important for good Nigerians to provide necessary information to security agencies,” he warned.

The former Chief of Defense Staff, notes that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration was not only to honour fallen heroes but also to appreciate serving personnel and their families for their sacrifices to the nation.

According to him, the event was also meant to encourage serving personnel and reassure them of the nation’s support, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.