The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to maintaining aggressive operations against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities. He urged military personnel to remain vigilant, noting that criminals often exploit festive periods to launch attacks.
General Oluyede delivered the message on Christmas Day during a special luncheon with troops of the 8 Division, Sector 2, Operation FASAN YAMMA, at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented him at the event.
Addressing the soldiers, the CDS commended their dedication and resilience, describing them as “the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered” while many Nigerians celebrated with family.
“Your commitment to duty, often at personal sacrifice, embodies the highest traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” Oluyede said. He highlighted the troops’ operational successes under Operation FASAN YAMMA, which have helped restore public confidence and stabilize key areas in the North-West and neighboring states.
The CDS emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between security agencies and local communities, stressing that intelligence sharing and public trust are critical for countering insecurity. He also warned troops to remain disciplined, follow rules of engagement, and uphold human rights, while being cautious of misinformation and enemy propaganda.
Oluyede assured personnel that their welfare remains a priority, promising improved living and working conditions, enhanced healthcare, and support for the families of service members.
In his remarks, COAS Lieutenant General Shaibu, represented by the Theatre Commander of Operation FASAN YAMMA, Major General Idris Warrah, said the Christmas luncheon is a longstanding tradition intended to boost morale and recognize the sacrifices of soldiers in active operations.
“This season reminds us of the virtues of love, sacrifice, and peace, values that reflect the core ethos of the Nigerian Army,” he said. Shaibu also paid tribute to fallen soldiers, observing a minute of silence in their honor.
General Shaibu reaffirmed his commitment to professionalism, combat readiness, and the welfare of personnel, emphasizing his aim to build a “more professional, adaptive, combat-ready, and resilient Nigerian Army.”
Major General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, described the presence of the CDS and COAS as a significant morale boost and a demonstration of the military high command’s dedication to troop welfare and operational efficiency. Ajose highlighted the sector’s successes, including securing key routes such as the Funtua–Gusau–Sokoto corridor and protecting communities across Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states.
He added that several bandit leaders and their fighters have been neutralized, and numerous criminal hideouts dismantled, enabling communities to resume normal activities. Ajose acknowledged the sacrifices of fallen and wounded soldiers, pledging continued support for their families.
The event brought together senior military officers, heads of security agencies, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ and Soldiers’ Wives Associations, and the press. The military leadership extended Christmas greetings to Nigerians and reiterated their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging continued dedication to safeguarding national peace and security.
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