By Olayemi Esan
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya has commenced an operational tour of the North East Theatre of Operations, charged them to be more vigilant and alert to their responsibilities, adding that with discipline and commitment, the war in the North East will be brought to an end.
This is contained in a statement signed by Director Army Public Relations, Brig. General Onyema Nwachukwu on Thursday in Abuja.
Nwachukwu said, the COAS arrived Headquarters Theatre Command in Maiduguri, on 2 February 2022, where troops are currently leading the onslaught against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
The COAS was briefed by the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Maj Gen Chris Musa on the current security situation in the theatre.
The COAS with his team later proceeded to Biu and Buratai towns, where he interacted with troops. In his address, the COAS lauded troops for their sacrifices and commitment in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency.
He reassured troops that administrative and operational challenges confronting their units will be given the desired attention.
While on the tour, the COAS paid homage to the Emir of Biu, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mai Mustapha Umar, at his Palace.
The Royal Father assured the COAS of the unflinching support and cooperation of his traditional council and the good people of Biu Emirate to the Nigerian Army.
The Emir conveyed the appreciation of the Emirate to the COAS for the sacrifices and commitment displayed by troops in combating the insurgency in his domain.
He urged the COAS and indeed the Nigerian Army remain resolute in discharging its constitutional responsibilities.
Speaking during the visit, the COAS stated that he was at the palace to pay homage and solicit the support of the traditional leader and his subjects in the ongoing counter insurgency operations.
He averred that the cooperation and goodwill of the traditional institution and the citizenry are invaluable for meaningful and sustainable operational success.
