By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has urged staff of the Ministry to embrace unity, professionalism, mutual respect and constructive dialogue to improve productivity and service delivery.
Musa made the call on Wednesday at the Ministry’s Union Week Celebration and Award Presentation Day at Ship House, Abuja, where he received the 2026 Union Award alongside management and staff.
In a statement by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu, the Minister said industrial harmony goes beyond absence of disagreement, stressing mutual respect, fairness, constructive engagement and shared commitment to the Ministry’s objectives.
He said the effectiveness of the Ministry depends on collective efforts of military personnel, civilian staff, management and organised labour, adding that “nobody can succeed alone.”
Musa emphasised professional ethics, integrity, discipline, accountability and commitment, noting that policies and resources only produce results when personnel show dedication.
He urged staff not to accept existing practices simply because “that is how it has always been done,” but to ask questions, identify gaps and leave the workplace better than they met it.
He commended the civilian workforce for contributions in administration, finance, logistics, technical, medical, legal and other specialised areas critical to the defence establishment.
Congratulating award recipients, he said “the reward for hard work is more work,” urging them to see recognition as motivation for greater service.
Earlier, the Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, said the theme, “Promoting Industrial Harmony and Professional Ethics in the World of Work,” demands collective commitment, mutual respect and ensuring every voice is heard through appropriate channels.
In a vote of thanks, President of the Joint Executive Council (JEC), Comrade Dahiru Goronyo, appreciated management for comradeship and cooperation, stressing continuous improvement in service delivery.
