By Olayemi Esan
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Faruk Yahaya and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal, Ishiaka Amao on Christmas Day fed about 91 wounded soldiers currently receiving treatment at Military Hospital in Maiduguri, tasked other troops to end insurgency in the North-East by next year.
Yahaya and Amao gave the task on Saturday at a joint Christmas Luncheon for the 91 wounded troops at the Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
“I implore you all to remain steadfast in tackling the myriads of security challenges that bedeviled our fatherland,” said Yahaya.
According to him, the troops should continue to work and actualize the mandate of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), which could restore peace in the Northeast by next year.
He said the Christmas celebration provides a unique memorable occasion to appreciate the sacrifices, loyalty and gallantry of troops in OPHK and other operations across the country.
“There are fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the defense of our beloved country,” he noted, stating that it is his fervent prayers that God grant their souls eternal peace and comfort to their families.
Besides, he added that the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari has remained committed to enhance the capacity of the troops through the provision of modern arms, vehicles and other fighting equipment.
He said this was to ensure the ongoing war is brought to a logical conclusion in the soonest possible time.
The General assured that the massive delivery of heavy equipment in the threatre is a testimony of the President’s resolve to end Bok Haram insurgency and all other insecurity threats to the nation.
Amao, also added that; “There should be a synergy among the Armed Forces, where the Air Component of the operations could provide both aerial and surveillance support to end terrorism that has claimed many lives and property.”
Six troops comprising two officers and four soldiers were also recognized yesterday; with the awards of gallantry in the front lines.
While the 50 widows of fallen heroes were donated N10.5 million by Yahaya, Amao, Commander of Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJF), Maj-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim and the Borno state government.
The 91 wounded troops that participated at the joint Christmas luncheon were given 20, 000 each by the Chief of Army Staff.
