SOKOTO, Nigeria – The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended frontline troops for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices in the fight against insecurity, describing them as the backbone of Nigeria's security architecture.
The COAS made the remark during a special Eid-el-Kabir luncheon hosted for troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tureta in Sokoto State as part of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the event was organised to boost troop morale, strengthen camaraderie, and honour personnel deployed on the frontlines away from their families.
Representing the COAS at the event, the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, conveyed a message of appreciation to the troops, praising their discipline, resilience, and commitment to duty. He noted that the gathering reflected the Nigerian Army's unity and family spirit.
"The troops' dedication and sacrifices remain the backbone of our nation's security," the COAS stated in his goodwill message, adding that the luncheon served as a reminder that the Nigerian Army stands together in both operations and celebrations.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic leadership and sustained support to the Armed Forces. He reassured Nigerians that the Army remains committed to safeguarding the country's territorial integrity and creating a secure environment for national development.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, highlighted the significance of Eid-el-Kabir, noting that its themes of sacrifice, obedience, and faith align closely with the values of military service.
He commended troops for their successes against terrorist networks and their prompt responses to communal conflicts within the division's area of responsibility.
The GOC further appreciated the COAS for providing critical combat enablers, timely reinforcements, and sustained welfare support for troops. He urged personnel to remain steadfast and continue to justify the confidence reposed in them by the Nigerian people.
The luncheon formed part of the Nigerian Army's efforts to recognise the contributions of troops and reinforce their commitment to ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across the country.
