The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday feted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA at a special Christmas luncheon held at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State, as part of efforts to boost morale and appreciate their sacrifices.
During the operational visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North West), the CDS commended officers and soldiers for their courage, discipline and dedication, noting that their efforts have recorded significant gains in stabilising the North-West and restoring public confidence despite the challenges of the festive period.
General Oluyede emphasised the need for sustained collaboration with other security agencies, government authorities and host communities, while reassuring the troops that their welfare, including improved living conditions, healthcare and family support, remains a top priority.
He also warned against reduced alertness during the Yuletide, urging heightened vigilance against criminal threats.
The CDS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support of military operations nationwide, assuring Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ unwavering resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of criminality.
In his remarks, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing tradition to honour the resilience of deployed troops and remember fallen heroes, reaffirming his commitment to transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, combat-ready and welfare-driven force, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2026.
Reporting by Mary Fatile