- Safiu Kehinde
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has on Saturday hailed the Nigerian Army troops for their resilience, dedication, and professionalism in the pursuit of national peace and security.
Shaibu made the commendation while hosting a Special Easter Luncheon for frontline troops of the 1 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 1, Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma.
The event, held at the COAS Special Intervention Battalion, Forward Operating Base (FOB) Afaka, is aimed at boosting the morale of officers and soldiers engaged in the ongoing operations against insurgents and terrorists in the region.
The COAS, who was represented by the Chief of Special Services and Programmes (Army), Maj.-Gen. Aminu Garba, said the Easter season symbolised sacrifice, hope and renewal, which were deeply rooted in the ethos of the Nigerian Army.
He urged the troops to maintain high standards of discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
In his remarks, the Commanding Officer, COAS Special Intervention Battalion V, Lt.-Col. Rotji Gideon, appreciated the army chief for the initiative, describing it as timely and morale-boosting for personnel operating under demanding conditions.
Also speaking, Capt. Ibrahim Manu, on behalf of the troops, expressed gratitude to the COAS, noting that the event provided an opportunity for personnel to relax and strengthen camaraderie.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1, Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase.
Others were staff officers of the division, the Air Component Commander, as well as traditional rulers and community stakeholders.
According to reports the luncheon featured a formal meal served by senior officers, comedy performances, and presentation of souvenirs.