By Mary Fatile (Lagos)
The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has honoured frontline troops of Operation Fansan Yamma with a special Christmas luncheon at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State.
The operational visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North West), Operation Fansan Yamma, aimed to boost morale, recognise the sacrifices of troops, and reinforce strategic directives guiding ongoing security operations across the North West.
Addressing officers and soldiers, General Oluyede conveyed warm Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, particularly while many Nigerians marked the festive season with their families.
The CDS praised the operational gains recorded under Operation Fansan Yamma, noting that the troops’ efforts have helped restore public confidence and stabilise the North West geopolitical zone and neighbouring states.
He called for sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, and continued engagement with local communities to consolidate peace.
General Oluyede assured the troops that their welfare remains a top priority, pledging improved living and working conditions, enhanced healthcare delivery, and sustained support for personnel families.
He also urged heightened vigilance during the festive period, warning that criminal elements often seek to exploit such occasions.
The CDS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his consistent support for military operations, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ resolve to combat terrorism and all forms of criminality nationwide.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing tradition to honour the sacrifices, resilience, and professionalism of troops in operational theatres.
He noted that the season offers a time for reflection, thanksgiving, and remembrance of fallen heroes whose sacrifices continue to secure the nation.
Lieutenant General Shaibu assured troops that the Nigerian Army would continue to support families of fallen personnel and uphold their legacy.
He reiterated his command philosophy of building a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient Army, with strong emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence, and operational readiness.
Both Service Chiefs reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding national peace, unity, and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year 2026.
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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