By Ahmed Liman Kingimi
Maiduguri – The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, celebrated Christmas with frontline troops in Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) on December 25, 2024, at Headquarters 212 Battalion parade ground, Maimalari Containment, Borno State.
The Christmas Luncheon, organized by Army Headquarters, provided an avenue for the Chief of Army Staff to dine and interact with the injured and other troops of Operation Hadin Kai.
During the event, the COAS said that in line with his command philosophy, he would consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army to become a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of effectively discharging their responsibilities within the joint and multi-agency environment.
He mentioned that the Armed Forces were enhancing their synergy and refining their collective strategies to eliminate terrorism and related criminal activities in the region.
“I am committed to consolidating all the ongoing viable welfare schemes to make you proud of your chosen profession and remain committed to duty,” he said.
“To my soldiers, I promise to prioritize you in everything. In this new year, expect better welfare packages,” the COAS assured the troops.
The COAS urged officers and men of the Nigerian Army to remain steadfast and maintain the momentum in the fight against terrorism.
Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General W. Shuibu, thanked the COAS for his visit and pledged the theatre command’s commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in the North East region.
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bukar Tijjani, commended the COAS’s visit and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the troops.
He assured the troops of his continued support and partnership in the fight against insurgency.