By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, hosted a Christmas luncheon for frontline troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri.
The gesture, according to s statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Thursday in Abuja, is an appreciation for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to duty.
Oluyede noted that the luncheon, usually held during major festive seasons, “help to bring troops together in a celebratory atmosphere.”
He said that the event was also organised to enable the army to give troops in the frontlines a semblance of what it would have been if they were back home with their families.
The army chief appreciated the troops for their significant contributions in the collective effort to defeat terror networks and other violent extremist groups who sought to undermine the unity, peace, and security of the nation.
He charged the troops to work towards the complete defeat of the nation’s adversaries “as the nation transits into the year 2025 in order to create the enabling environment for peace, socio-economic development and prosperity of the country.
“This is in line with his my command’s philosophy to consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a Well-Motivated and Combat-Ready Force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment.”
The COAS reiterated his commitment to consolidating all ongoing viable welfare schemes and instituting new ones to make the troops proud of their chosen profession, and to remain committed to duty.
He urged the troops to renew their dedication by gleaning from the lessons of the season in showing love, hope, healing, and renewed vigour.
Oluyede conveyed the commendation of President Bola Tinubu and appreciation of Nigerians to all troops fighting in defence of the country.
In his goodwill message, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, commended the troops for their sacrifices in ensuring peace and security in the state, the North East zone and the nation at large.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Bukar Tijani, paid tribute to the troops who paid the supreme price in ensuring peace and security in Borno.
He assured the army of the government’s continued support for the ongoing operations to restore peace and stability in all parts of the state.
In his welcome address, the Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, said the luncheon fostered the spirit of camaraderie and provided the opportunity to recount collective achievements and challenges over the past year.
Shaibu appreciated the COAS for visiting the frontline troops twice in three weeks, noting that it underscored his commitment to raising the morale of troops of Operation HADINKAI Kai.
He told the COAS that the troops would remain steadfast in their resolve to restoring normalcy in the North East Region, adding that the troops were highly motivated and committed to achieving the overall mandate of the joint task force.
Oluyede also performed the ground breaking for the construction of two blocks of 30 family accommodation in Maimalari Cantonment to demonstrate his commitment for improved welfare of the troops. (NAN)(
