The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has charged troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) to uphold the ideals of the Nigerian Army (NA) and defend the sovereignty of Nigeria with honour. The COAS gave this charge during his special Eid-el-Adha celebration lunch with troops of OPFY at 108 Division Equipment Support Workshop Parade Ground, Giginya Cantonment Sokoto on 6 June 2025.
The Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 8 Division. Lt Col Ibrahim Shittu noted in a press statement that the COAS who was represented by the Commander, Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga the charged troops to continue to make significant progress in overcoming security challenges facing the nation and continue to remain vigilant, focused, and continue to exemplify the finest traditions of the NA.
He said the COAS maintained that their commitment to duty remains a source of inspiration, assuring them that their sacrifices are not in vain as their welfare and that of their families remain a top priority.
The COAS reiterated that NA remains resolute in prioritizing their welfare and enhancing operational capabilities and supporting all efforts aimed at improving their efficiency in the field.
Lieutenant General Oluyede said Eid-el-Adha celebration is a significant occasion that symbolizes sacrifice, devotion and unity, stressing that the celebration is not a merely a cultural or religious event, rather a moment to reflect on the values that unite us.
He further stated that the season reminds that sacrifice for greater good is a noble act, noting that those values explified daily in their actions, dedication and unwavering commitment to protecting the country, particularly in OPFY. He urged the troops to embrace the spirit of the season by fostering unity, understanding and compassion in all they do.
While commending their doggedness, COAS further charged them to remain vigilant, focused and redouble their efforts towards removing all encumbrances to peace within their Area of Responsibility.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigeria Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force OPFY, Major General Ibikunle Ajose noted that the event emphasized the unwavering support and commitment of the COAS to the welfare, morale and operational efficiency of the troops which is in line with his Command Philosophy, which focuses on sound administration for the smooth and effective running of the NA.
The GOC said that the event is not only an opportunity to celebrate the season, but also to reflect on collective sacrifices, achievement and resolve as a team. While expressing the achievements made by the troops, the GOC highlighted the securing once dreaded Funtua - Gusau - Sokoto Road, which has been made by continues operations to ensure commuters ply the road without fear.
He added that lives and properties across the 4 states of Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara are continued to be safeguarded, ensuring that more communities hitherto troubled sports are now safe for the locals to continue with their daily activities. He therefore commended their resilience and charged them to remain focused, disciplined, and mission-oriented.
The auspicious occasion witnessed various cultural dance and entertainment, and COAS visit to wounded-in-action troops at the 8 Division Military Service and Hospital. Present at occasion include His Eminence Sultan of Sokoto, ably represented by the District Head of Kilgori, Dr Mohammed Jabbi Kilgori, Commissioner of Police Sokoto State Command, and various heads and representatives of security agencies and parastatals in Sokoto State among others.
