Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
As Muslims across Nigeria and the world celebrate Eid-El-Kabir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on Friday praised officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their dedication, courage, and sacrifice in defending the nation.
The Army Chief was represented during a special Sallah lunch with troops of the operation by the Commander Nigeria Army Cyber Warfare, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga, in Sokoto.
In a message delivered by the Commander of the Cyber Warfare Command, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga, during a gathering with troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, General Oluyede highlighted the unwavering resolve and patriotism of soldiers confronting security challenges nationwide.
“Your selfless devotion and resilience in defense of our fatherland are deeply appreciated.”
He said, noting that the sacrifices made by military personnel reflect the values of Eid-El-Kabir obedience, sacrifice, and faith.
The COAS linked the symbolic meaning of the Eid celebration to the duties of soldiers deployed across various regions, stating that progress in restoring peace is a direct outcome of the Army’s bravery, professionalism, and loyalty.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes and acknowledged the visible and invisible scars borne by serving troops, extending solidarity to their families during the festive period.
“We honour their legacies and stand with their families during this period. Their heroism remains etched in our national memory,” he said.
General Oluyede reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to preserving national sovereignty and protecting citizens, urging all personnel to remain disciplined, united, and focused on their mission.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support in advancing national security efforts.
As part of the celebration in Sokoto, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of the sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation Fansar Yamma, Major General Ibikulke Ajose, restated the troops’ allegiance to the COAS’s leadership and his philosophy of “sound administration for effective operations.”
He noted that the COAS’s visit was both morale boosting and symbolic, inspiring troops to remain steadfast in their duties to restore peace in the North West.
“This season is not only for celebration but for reflection on our collective sacrifices and achievements. It reminds us that we remain a united and formidable force committed to the safety and well-being of our country,” Ajose said.
He cited the restoration of relative safety along the Funtua-Gusau-Sokoto highway and enhanced security in communities across Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states as evidence of operational success.
“The troops will not relent. The successes achieved have only strengthened our resolve to do even more,” he added.
The COAS encouraged soldiers and their families to celebrate Eid-El-Kabir festivities with gratitude and a renewed sense of duty to the nation.
