‘A friend of a thief is a thief’, Defence Minister warns terrorist sympathizers
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned terrorist sympathizers of dire consequences, while calling for support for members of the Nigerian armed forces and other security agencies.
He made the remarks on Saturday while speaking at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 Golf Tournament which held at the TYB Golf Resort and Country Club, Yar’Adua Barracks, Abuja.
He emphasized the tasks on the military arm as directed by the Federal Government, which include ensuring the safety of Nigerians and the peace of the country.
“You can see that the President has consistently stood up for the armed forces, supported the armed forces, encouraged us, and has given us a mandate — for the armed forces to ensure that there is peace in Nigeria,” he said.
“Those that are still supporting those bandits, criminals, terrorists, should stop, because you see, a friend of a thief is a thief.
“For us, if we get to the battle field and you are among them, then whatever happens to them, happens to you.
“It is important for good Nigerians to provide us with necessary information. As quickly as you see something, say something. And the armed forces is always ready to react,” Musa added.
The Defence Minister’s admonition stresses that romancing terrorists only strengthens their resolve and boost their criminal enterprises, which have already taken its toll on communities, families, and human lives.
It further legitimizes and undermines national security efforts, hence the caution against those who are sympathetic to criminal groups that have wreaked havoc on Nigerian families through terrorism, kidnappings and various criminal activities.
Musa further noted that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was a day set aside to honor fallen heroes, while acknowledging the sacrifices of serving members and their families.
“The significance is to ensure that members of the armed forces are not forgotten, that their sacrifices are appreciated, including the families of those who have passed on,” he said.
