The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, honoured frontline troops with a festive Christmas luncheon in Sokoto State, recognising their dedication and sacrifices in maintaining peace and security.
The event, organised by Headquarters 8 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, celebrated the dedication and sacrifices of personnel safeguarding lives and maintaining peace across the Joint Operations Area of Responsibility. Officers, soldiers, and their families attended, enjoying an atmosphere of unity and festive cheer.
In his address, General Oluyede extended warm Christmas greetings to the troops and expressed delight at marking the yuletide season with Operation FANSAN YAMMA personnel.
He described Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice, hope, and renewal, providing an opportunity to reflect on shared humanity, collective responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the nation’s peace, unity, and progress.
“While many Nigerians celebrate with their families, you, the frontline troops, remain steadfast in performing your oath to God and country, standing as the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered.
“I commend your selfless service, courage, and professionalism in executing Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which has contributed significantly to restoring public confidence and stabilising Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States, and note that the nation owes you immense gratitude,” he said.
Represented by Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, General Oluyede urged troops to remain vigilant, disciplined, and proactive, warning that criminal elements often exploit festive periods to undermine peace and security.
“Let me also appeal for continued collaboration with sister security agencies and positive engagement with local communities, whose trust is essential to achieving enduring peace,” he added.
He reassured personnel that their welfare remains a priority, with ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, enhance healthcare, and support families of fallen heroes. He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief, for his steadfast support of military operations nationwide.
“We remain resolute and relentless in combating terrorism, defending democracy, and safeguarding the nation,” he added.
In his remarks, COAS Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by Major General Warah Idris, Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended the troops for their selfless sacrifices. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism, combat readiness, and personnel welfare, while appreciating the support of military families, sister services, and key stakeholders.
In his welcome address, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, said the division’s troops were committed to resilient operations to ensure lasting peace within their areas of responsibility.
He emphasised that the soldiers exemplify loyalty, courage, and selflessness, consistently protecting citizens in the northwest. As Commander of Northwest Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, General Ajose assured that the 8 Division remains committed to unity and operational compliance, achieving remarkable success across Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, ensuring local communities can move safely.
He added that operations have successfully neutralised several bandits and their foot soldiers, commending the strategic guidance of the CDS and the unwavering support of the COAS.
“I salute and specially recognise the steadfastness, discipline, and focus of our troops for their results-oriented efforts,” General Ajose stated.
