By Chijioke Kingsley
Abuja (Sundiata Post) – The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has tasked troops to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation, which is anchored on love, sacrifice and unity.
He said the spirit of the season, which is in consonance with the military’s core mandate should spur troops to go all out in protecting the integrity of the country.
COAS stated this in Jos on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, during the annual COAS Christmas Luncheon organised for troops.
“It gives me great pleasure to felicitate with all officers, soldiers, and their families as we celebrate the Yuletide season and usher in a New Year.
“The annual commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ is a time for us to rededicate ourselves to the virtues of love, sacrifice, and unity”, he said.
Represented by the Commander of the Armored Corps, Abuja, Maj. Gen. Sani Ahmed, COAS also called on troops to uphold the virtues of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by officers and soldiers of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), and 3 Division, Nigerian Army.
He also did not forget those deployed in various operations who could not celebrate Christmas with their loved ones due to the demands of duty.
Oluyede thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unflinching support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.
“The Nigerian Army will remain committed, determined and focused in winning all land battles in defence of the territorial integrity of Nigeria, protect her national interests and accomplish other tasks in aid of civil authority within a joint and multi-agency environment”, he said.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation Safe Haven, Maj.Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, lauded the troops for the operational achievements recorded throughout the year.
He also tasked them to redouble their efforts as the challenges faced in the Joint Operations Area requires continuous vigilance and dedication.
He urged troops to remain disciplined, loyal, vigilant and professional in their conduct especially in this season and always.
Abubakar appreciated the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and the Chief of Army Staff, for their leadership and strategic guidance which have helped the 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN record numerous operational successes using both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.