The Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal, Abubakar Hasan and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja have expressed heartfelt commendations for the sacrifices and efforts of personnel of the Nigerian Air Force and Army troops at the frontline for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The Chiefs in separate Christmas messages and video personally signed on Sunday 24 December 2023, the Chiefs congratulated troops for making it this far into the year and for weathering every storm that came their way.
In the video, the Air Chief, "As we celebrate this season of joy and togetherness, I want to take a moment to wish our troops on the front lines. A wonderful Christmas celebration. Through your selfless acts of courage and bravery, as well as your unwavering dedication and service to our nation, our citizens have been allowed to celebrate and enjoy this festive moment.
The entire nation is indeed proud of your gallant efforts. And your devotion to duty remains a beacon of hope for all Nigerians. Rest assured that the Nigerian Air Force stands beside you intertwined in our efforts and we remain committed to redoubling our endeavours, fulfilling your everyday operational and welfare needs in reviewing our security situation.
Especially in the last six months, I must say we have every reason to be proud of our achievements, and I'm optimistic that the New Year holds even better promises for the security of our dear nation and the well-being of our citizenry. On behalf of the Nigerian Air Force family, I wish you all a Merry Christmas. And a peaceful New Year field with ease and joy and fulfilment of our noble objectives.
On his part, the Army Chief in a press statement signed by Director Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen Onyema Nwachukwu saluted the troops’ undying faith in the Nigerian State in the face of adversity.
He noted that over fifty thousand troops of the Nigerian Army would miss wishing their families and loved ones Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in person, during this yuletide.
He expatiated that it is not because they did not want to, but because they would be on duty across difficult-to-access towns, communities, villages and hamlets, across the country and beyond.
He stated that the troops were duty-bound to be deployed, while other families rejoiced and celebrated together, sometimes not knowing if similar celebrations were going on in their own families.
Gen Lagbaja noted further, that judging by the policies and unfolding programmes of the Federal Government, the year ahead holds good prospects for Nigeria and the Army.
He revealed, that in the coming year, the NA expects to take delivery of its helicopters and other combat enablers that would enhance a better security environment across the country. He revealed that the Army Headquarters has initiated several welfare projects that would directly impact the lives of soldiers and their families.
He reiterated that the well-being of troops is of utmost importance and assured that he would continue to work tirelessly to provide troops' with the requisite resources to carry out their duties effectively.
General Lagbaja stated that he was not oblivious that the NA is constantly confronted by some challenges as it strives to fulfill its constitutional obligations, but added quickly, that they are by no means insurmountable.
He expressed confidence in the support of the Executive and Legislative Arms of Government to boost the physical, moral and conceptual components of the NA’s fighting power towards becoming a more efficient force.
He reassured that the NA will continue to work with Sister Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other Security and Response agencies to create and maintain a peaceful, safe and secure environment for the socio-economic development of the country.