The Nigerian military leadership, headed by Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, honoured frontline troops with a special Christmas luncheon in Sokoto State.
The celebration was in recognition of the troops’ dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and maintaining peace across the Joint Operations Area of Responsibility.
The event, hosted by Headquarters 8 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, brought together officers, soldiers, and their families in an atmosphere of unity and festive cheer.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, extended warm Christmas greetings to the troops, expressing delight at celebrating the yuletide season with personnel of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
He described Christmas as a season that embodies love, sacrifice, hope, and renewal, offering an opportunity to reflect on shared humanity, collective responsibility, and the unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and progress of the nation.
“While many Nigerians celebrate with their families, you, the frontline troops, remain steadfast in performing your oath to God and country, standing as the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered.
“I commend your selfless service, courage, and professionalism in executing Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which has contributed significantly to restoring public confidence and stabilising Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States, and note that the nation owes you immense gratitude,” General Oluyede said.
Represented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Defence Chief further urged troops to remain vigilant, disciplined, and proactive, reminding them that criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods to undermine peace and security.
“Let me also appeal for continued collaboration with sister security agencies and positive engagement with local communities, whose trust is essential to achieving enduring peace,” he added.
He reassured personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, with ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, enhance healthcare, and support families of fallen heroes.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief, for his steadfast support to military operations nationwide.
“We remain resolute and relentless in combating terrorism, defending democracy, and safeguarding the nation,” he added.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Warah Idris, commended the frontline troops for their selfless sacrifices.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism, combat readiness, and personnel welfare, in line with his command philosophy. He also appreciated the support of military families, sister services, and key stakeholders.
In his welcome address at the annual event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, said the troops of the division were committed to resilient operations for lasting peace in the country within their areas of responsibility.
He explained that the troops were strategic in advancing the core values of loyalty, courage, and selflessness, consistently protecting the lives of Nigerian citizens in the northwest.
General Ajose, who is also the Commander Northwest Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, assured that the 8 Division remains committed to unity and operational compliance, achieving remarkable success through continuous operations, which have positively impacted the lives of citizens across Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, ensuring locals could travel safely.
The GOC said these operations had enabled troops to gallantly neutralise a number of bandits and their foot soldiers, while he commended the strategic efforts and support of the CDS and the unwavering operational commitment of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.
“I salute and specially recognise the steadfastness, discipline, and focus of our troops for their result-oriented efforts,” General Ajose stated.