The Nigerian Military Leadership led by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, have celebrated frontline troops with a special Christmas lunch in Jos the Plateau State Capital North Central Nigeria in recognition of their dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and maintaining peace across the Joint Operations Area.
The event, hosted by Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army and Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and invited guests in an atmosphere of warmth, unity, and festive cheer.
The Chief of Defence Staff extended warm Christmas greetings to the troops, expressing delight at celebrating the yuletide season with personnel of 3 Division and JTF OPEP. 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 ENDURING PEACE, which has contributed significantly to restoring public confidence and stabilising Plateau State and adjoining areas of Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Benue States, and noted that the nation owes them immense gratitude” said General Oluyede.
The CDS 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. I reassure personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, with ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, enhance healthcare, and support families. Let me also express my profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, 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.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Shaibu, represented by the Commander Armour Corps, Major General UB Abubakar, 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.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, highlighted the operational successes recorded under Operation PEACE SHIELD,
“These includes the neutralisation of criminals, arrests of kidnappers, and recovery of arms and ammunition, which contributed to a relatively peaceful yuletide across the Joint Operations Area,” he stated.
The event concluded with renewed calls for discipline, unity, and professionalism, as troops were encouraged to celebrate responsibly while remaining vigilant in the defence of the nation.