The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, on Thursday, 25 December 2025, hosted frontline troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) to a Christmas luncheon in Plateau State, as part of efforts to boost morale and demonstrate leadership’s solidarity with personnel deployed across various theatres of operation.
The CDS was represented at the event by the Commander Armour Corps, Major General UB Abubakar, who delivered goodwill messages on his behalf. He conveyed warm Christmas greetings to the troops, describing the season as one of love, sacrifice, hope and renewal.
Major General Abubakar commended the officers and soldiers for remaining steadfast at their duty posts while many Nigerians celebrated with their families, noting that their courage, discipline and professionalism reflect the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The CDS praised the troops’ performance under Operation ENDURING PEACE, stating that their sustained efforts have significantly restored public confidence and enhanced stability in Plateau State, as well as parts of Kaduna, Nasarawa and Benue States. He urged the personnel to maintain close synergy with sister security agencies and deepen engagement with host communities, in line with the whole-of-government approach to security.
Reaffirming leadership’s commitment to troop welfare, the CDS assured personnel of continued improvements in living and working conditions, enhanced healthcare delivery and sustained support to families. He also called for heightened vigilance during the festive period to prevent criminal activitiesĺ
General Oluyede further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to military operations nationwide, while reiterating the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s resolve to remain steadfast in the defence of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander JTF OPEP, Major General EF Oyinlola, thanked the CDS for identifying with troops during the Yuletide season. He described the presence of senior military leadership as a strong morale booster for personnel deployed within the Joint Operations Area.
Major General Oyinlola highlighted key operational successes recorded by the task force, including the neutralisation of criminal elements, arrest of suspected kidnappers and recovery of arms and ammunition, which he said contributed to a relatively peaceful Yuletide across Plateau State and neighbouring areas.
In a press statement, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, noted that a major highlight of the event was the symbolic serving of Christmas meals to frontline troops by the CDS’ representative and other senior officers, a gesture that reinforced leadership’s closeness to personnel at the frontlines and further boosted morale among the troops.
