Addis Ababa, October 25, 2026 (FMC) — Defense Minister Mohammed Idris has praised the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) for its courage, resilience, and commitment to overcoming challenges while safeguarding Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Mohammed made the remarks during the commemoration of the 119th Defense Forces Day at the Armed Forces General Headquarters on Saturday under the theme “Army of Victory.”
The ceremony brought together Chief of General Staff Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, former military leaders, military attachés, diplomats from various countries, and invited guests.
The minister described the ENDF as a pillar of public confidence and a shield for the nation during challenging times, highlighting its role in defending the country and contributing to its overall development.
He said the force had protected Ethiopia’s borders, maintained public peace, and thwarted threats and conspiracies originating both within and outside the country.
Mohammed also underscored the ENDF’s contribution to regional peace and security, noting that its performance had demonstrated its reliability and operational capabilities.
He added that the force had developed a dependable level of overall capability, enabling it to serve as a national safeguard against potential provocations and threats.
The minister further emphasized that evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region had made the military’s role more critical than ever in protecting national interests and maintaining peace and stability.
Defense Forces Day is observed annually to commemorate the establishment of Ethiopia’s modern defense forces, traced to Tikimt 15, 1900, in the Ethiopian calendar, when the country appointed its first Minister of War.
The annual observance honors generations of military personnel who sacrificed their lives to defend Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also seeks to preserve the ENDF’s history, heroism, and traditions while passing its legacy of service and sacrifice on to future generations.