Ilorin: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Sunday celebrated frontline troops with a special Christmas luncheon at Daban Lema in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, commending their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and preserving national peace.
Shaibu said the celebration recognised the troops’ dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and maintaining peace across the Joint Operations Area of Responsibility.
Shaibu, who was represented by the Commander of Signal Corps, Maj. Gen. Muhammad Abdullahi extended warm felicitations to the troops and expressed delight at celebrating the yuletide with personnel of operations.
He urged the troops to remain vigilant, disciplined, and proactive, reminding them that criminal elements often sought to exploit festive periods to undermine security.
He reassured personnel that their welfare remains top priority, with ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, enhance healthcare, and support families of fallen heroes.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support of military operations nationwide.
“Your unwavering support to safeguard our territorial integrity and ensure the safety of all Nigerians is deeply appreciated.
“As we step into the new year, let us strengthen our unity as one formidable and disciplined force, as well as continue to uphold the trust placed upon us by the President”, he said.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Christopha Nnebeife said that the luncheon was organised by the COAS to interact and appreciate the troops in all theatres of operations.
He said that the presence of the COAS was ably represented by Maj-Gen. Abdullahi was a testament to his resolve to address the welfare of troops, no matter where they are deployed.
“Sir, on behalf of officers and soldiers of 2 Division, I respectfully convey our sincere appreciation to the COAS for this morale booster, which is firmly rooted in his command philosophy”, he said.
Also, Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the event as significant, adding that it underscores the country’s commitment to the well-being of troops on the frontlines.
AbdulRazaq, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, said that the event shows that the civilian authorities stand in full solidarity with the troops.
“I thank the COAS for this important outreach to the troops at the frontlines, and we are always happy and ready to support the army and all our security forces every step of the way”, he said.