The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s dedication to national security, commending troops for their steadfastness and sacrifice.
Speaking through the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, at a Sallah luncheon with the 8 Division and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at Forward Operating Base Tureta, Sokoto State, the COAS said the visit aimed to boost frontline morale and honour soldiers wounded in action.
He noted that the resilience and achievements of troops across troubled regions clearly demonstrate their commitment to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
General Shaibu thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and pledged that the Army remains resolute in defending the nation and ensuring an environment where human endeavours can thrive in peace.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, reminded troops that their unity has yielded unprecedented results against enemies of the nation. He described the COAS’s representation as a powerful testament to unwavering resolve on troop welfare, regardless of deployment.
The GOC stated that the event reflects the COAS’s command philosophy: “To transform the Nigerian Army into a professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
Central to this vision, he added, is the “Soldier First” concept, which emphasises morale and robust administration for operational effectiveness. The luncheon, he submitted, is a deliberate leadership gesture to recognise gallantry, reinforce cohesion, and consolidate operational gains.
“By bringing this feast to the frontline in Sokoto State, the COAS is affirming that your toils are seen, your sacrifices are valued, and your welfare is our highest priority,” the GOC said.
In a vote of thanks, the Commander 8 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Abdulmalik Mohammed, expressed gratitude for the COAS’s commitment to troop welfare and unity.
