By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, have reaffirmed the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to troop welfare, heightened vigilance, and strengthened civil–military cooperation in Sokoto.
The Service Chiefs made the declaration on Friday while hosting a special Christmas luncheon for frontline troops of 8 Division/Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State.
This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, on Friday in Abuja.
Addressing troops, Gen. Oluyede commended their dedication, courage, and discipline, particularly during the festive season when many Nigerians celebrate with their families.
He urged troops to sustain close collaboration with other security agencies, state governments, and local authorities while maintaining positive relations with communities to ensure lasting stability across the North West.
According to him, the nation sleeps in peace because you remain awake at your duty posts.
“Your resilience and selfless service represent the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.
Oluyede also warned against complacency, noting that criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods, urging them not to be distracted by misinformation or propaganda.
He also urged them to remain focused, lawful, and resolute in the discharge of their duties.
In his remarks, the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu, highlighted the importance of troop welfare, operational readiness, and professionalism as central to the Nigerian Army’s ongoing reforms.
Shaibu emphasised that the Christmas luncheon tradition is not only a celebration but also a morale-boosting engagement between leadership and troops.
“This engagement is to remind you that your sacrifices are recognised at the highest levels.
“We share in your absence from family and loved ones and remain committed to improving welfare and rewarding excellence,” he said.
The COAS also led the troops in honouring fallen personnel, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to supporting the families of deceased soldiers and preserving the legacy of their ultimate sacrifices.
Both Service Chiefs thanked President Bola Tinubu, for his unwavering support to military operations nationwide.
They assured Nigerians that the armed forces would remain proactive and resolute in combating terrorism, banditry, and other threats to national security.
The visit concluded with renewed assurances that Operation FANSAN YAMMA will continue to deploy decisive, intelligence-driven, and people-centred strategies to sustain peace across the North West and adjoining regions. (NAN)
