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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, marked Christmas by honoring sick and injured soldiers with a visit on Wednesday.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede assured the soldiers that their sacrifices in the line of duty would not be forgotten. Speaking at a Christmas luncheon held at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna, the COAS emphasized his commitment to the welfare of all personnel, including officers, soldiers, their families, and the fallen.
Represented by Maj.-Gen. Marcus Kangye, Corps Commander Artillery, Oluyede pledged to enhance professionalism, combat readiness, and sound administration in the Nigerian Army. He highlighted plans to prioritize personnel welfare, recognize outstanding performance, and implement a robust system of rewards and penalties.
The COAS reiterated his vision of transforming the Nigerian Army into a motivated and combat-ready force capable of fulfilling its constitutional duties within a joint and multi-agency framework.
He commended troops for their unwavering dedication to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly those deployed in various theaters of operations who are unable to celebrate the festive season with their families due to duty demands.
“The efforts of our troops in safeguarding lives and property are well-recognized by patriotic Nigerians and our allies,” Oluyede stated.
He called on all personnel to remain disciplined, loyal to the chain of command, and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, urging them to embrace patriotism and excellence in their duties.
As part of the Christmas celebration, the COAS encouraged troops to honor the memory of fallen heroes, including the immediate past COAS, the late Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in winning all land battles to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity, safeguard national interests, and support civil authorities in joint operations,” he affirmed.
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, commended the dedication and sacrifices of soldiers within the Division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR). He acknowledged the challenges posed by the volatile and complex security situation but noted significant stability achieved under the Division’s watch.
Saraso highlighted successes such as improved security along critical corridors, including the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari and Abuja-Kaduna roads. He also noted the rescue of kidnapped victims and the surrender of several bandits, crediting proactive kinetic and non-kinetic measures for these accomplishments.
The Christmas luncheon, Saraso added, was a gesture of appreciation for the injured soldiers’ efforts and sacrifices throughout the year. It was also aimed at strengthening their resolve to maintain security within the Division’s AOR, leaving no room for terrorist or insurgent activities.
