As the sun set on October 31, 2025, at the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, Nigeria bid an emotional farewell to one of its most beloved military leaders. General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), the 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), bowed out after 39 years of meritorious service during a grand Pulling-Out Parade. Affectionately known as the “People’s General,” he left office with a clear conscience, declaring, “I gave my all” to the nation and its fight against insecurity. 

Appointed CDS in June 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Gen. Musa served until his successor, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, took over on October 30, 2025. In his valedictory speech, he urged troops to remain resolute, reminding them that “Nigeria is a country worth fighting for.” He pledged continued loyalty to the nation, even in retirement, and called for greater synergy among security agencies while appealing to Nigerians to pray for frontline soldiers.

Born on Christmas Day 1967 in Sokoto and hailing from Zangon Kataf in Kaduna State, Gen. Musa rose through the ranks from a second lieutenant in 1991 to the pinnacle of Nigeria’s military. His career was marked by key roles in counter-insurgency operations, including Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai. But what truly earned him the title “People’s General” was his profound empathy for the troops—the men and women who bear the scars of service.

A Champion for Wounded, Injured, and Sick Servicemen and Women

Gen. Musa’s legacy shines brightest in his unwavering support for Nigeria’s wounded warriors. He understood that true victory isn’t just on the battlefield—it’s in giving hope to those who sacrifice everything. Under his leadership, Nigeria deepened its commitment to the Invictus Games, becoming the first African nation to join and excel on the global stage.

It was Gen. Musa who extended the historic invitation to Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, for their groundbreaking visit in May 2024. That trip wasn’t glamour—it was a catalyst. He personally led efforts to showcase rehabilitation through sport, hosting events where wounded soldiers shared their stories and demonstrated resilience.

The pinnacle of his vision came on January 31, 2025, when Gen. Musa led the groundbreaking ceremony for Africa’s first Armed Forces Invictus Recovery Centre in Abuja. Joined by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, he turned soil on a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to physical, mental, and psychological rehabilitation. “This centre will offer innovative programs for our brave men and women who have endured wounds in the line of duty,” he said, emphasizing that no soldier should be left behind.

This wasn’t just infrastructure—it was a beacon. The centre, inspired by Invictus principles, aims to transform lives through sports recovery, skill development, and community reintegration. Gen. Musa welcomed Nigerian teams home from Vancouver 2025 with pride, celebrating their medals and declaring, “The Armed Forces will never abandon its own.” His push expanded Invictus across Africa, inspiring nations like Ghana and Kenya to explore similar networks.

As co-founder of Africa Unconquered, I’ve seen firsthand how Gen. Musa’s collaboration with partners like the Invictus Games Foundation and David Wiseman amplified these efforts. From training camps to para-volleyball exhibitions, he championed programs that heal minds and rebuild confidence. His support for Nigeria Unconquered athletes and empowerment initiatives empowered countless veterans to rise unconquered. 

To the woman who stood strongest beside the strongest

Behind every great General is a greater heart.

Mrs. Lilian Gwabin Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), has been the quiet force that made the loud victories possible.

In Vancouver earlier this year, she didn’t just attend – she mothered the entire Team Nigeria.

Late-night hospital visits.

Extra blankets for warriors who felt cold in a foreign land.

Hugs that lasted longer than ceremonies.

Tears she wiped before cameras could see.

And when we ran out of funds for physio tape, she quietly made calls that kept our athletes on the track.

As DEPOWA President, she turned military wives from “spouses” into sisters-in-arms.

Scholarships for children of the fallen.

Vocational centres for widows.

Mental health circles where officers’ wives could finally speak without rank.

Ma, you didn’t just support the CDS.

You supported all of us.

Your grace in the stands was as powerful as his orders in the ops room.

A Legacy That Lives On

Gen. Musa’s tenure wasn’t without challenges—insurgency, banditry, and resource constraints tested him daily. Yet, he leaves behind a more unified Armed Forces, stronger veteran care, and a Nigeria where wounded heroes are celebrated, not forgotten. As he handed over to Gen. Oluyede, he urged continuity: “Extend the same loyalty and professionalism.”

The People’s General may have retired his uniform, but his heart remains with the troops. His work on the Invictus Centre and beyond ensures that every soldier’s sacrifice echoes in hope and healing. Thank you, sir, for showing us that true leadership lifts the fallen.

#PeoplesGeneral #InvictusNigeria #WeAreUnconquered

Derrick Cobbinah – British Army veteran, co-founder of Africa Unconquered, and proud collaborator in Gen. Musa’s vision for support for our soldiers