The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold unity, discipline and sacrifice in the discharge of their duties.
The COAS made the call at a special Eid-el-Fitr Sallah luncheon organised for frontline troops within the 8 Division Area of Responsibility.
Speaking on his behalf of the COAS, the Commander, Infantry Corps and Centre, Major General Godwin Mutkut, noted that the Eid-el-Fitr celebration marks the successful completion of Ramadan, a period characterised by devotion, self-discipline, sacrifice and spiritual reflection, values he said align closely with the ethos of the military profession.
The Army Chief described this year’s observance as unique, pointing out that the Muslim fasting period coincided with the Christian Lenten season, enabling both Muslim and Christian personnel to engage in spiritual reflection simultaneously.
According to him, the rare alignment underscores the unity and shared values within the Nigerian Army.
“Although the forms of worship may differ, the essence remains the same sacrifice, humility, self-restraint, compassion and renewal,” he said.
He stressed that the convergence of the two religious observances highlights the Army’s strength in diversity, adding that mutual respect among personnel remains key to cohesion and operational effectiveness.
The COAS paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation, noting that their courage and patriotism continue to inspire serving troops.
He also commended officers and soldiers currently deployed in various theatres of operation for their resilience and commitment, even as they celebrate away from their families.
Assuring personnel of his commitment to their welfare, the Army Chief said efforts would continue to improve living conditions, enhance professional development and strengthen support systems for soldiers and their families.
He further acknowledged the role of other security and intelligence agencies, noting that collaboration remains essential in addressing the country’s security challenges.
The COAS expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support and strategic leadership.
He urged troops to sustain the lessons of Ramadan by embracing discipline, humility and compassion in service to the nation.
The Army Chief wished all officers, soldiers and their families a peaceful and joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North-West) Major General Paul Koughna, appreciated the support of the state government, describing the luncheon as timely and in line with the directive of the COAS to appreciate troops and boost their morale in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
He commended the troops for their sacrifices and resilience in combating criminal elements, urging them to remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to their duties.
He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Muazu Nasiru Danmusa, lauded the gallantry and dedication of troops in tackling crime and criminality across the state.
Danmusa acknowledged the critical role of the military in restoring peace and stability, assuring that the state government would continue to support security agencies, particularly in the areas of welfare and logistics.
He added that the government would sustain collaboration with all relevant stakeholders in the fight against banditry, urging troops to remain focused, courageous and resolute in the discharge of their responsibilities.
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