The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has called on troops of Operation Fasan Yamma and other Nigerian Army formations to remain united, disciplined, and steadfast in defending the country as Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.
Shaibu gave the charge on Sunday during a special Eid-el-Fitr Sallah luncheon organised for frontline troops within the 8 Division Area of Responsibility in Dan-Ali, Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Represented by the Commander, Infantry Corps and Centre, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, the Army Chief described the occasion as not only a time of celebration but also a moment for reflection on service, sacrifice, and shared purpose among personnel.
“As we mark the joyous and spiritually uplifting occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to all Muslim officers, soldiers, and their families for successfully witnessing this sacred month of Ramadan,” he said.
He noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, allowing both Muslim and Christian personnel to observe periods of fasting and spiritual reflection at the same time.
“The discipline required to deny oneself comfort, the resilience to endure hardship, and the commitment to spiritual and moral renewal are qualities that shape not only the faithful but also the professional soldier.
“We have fasted in different ways but reflected together, endured together, and renewed our sense of purpose together. This is a strength we must continue to cherish and uphold,” he added.
Shaibu also paid tribute to officers and soldiers who lost their lives in active service, describing them as fallen heroes whose sacrifices continue to inspire those still serving. He further acknowledged troops currently deployed in difficult operational theatres, many of whom are serving far away from their families.
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment to personnel welfare, the COAS said operational effectiveness depends not only on weapons and tactics but also on the morale, confidence, and well-being of soldiers.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to improve living conditions, strengthen professional development, and enhance support systems for soldiers and their families,” he stated.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, especially in welfare, operational readiness, and institutional development.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fasan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. Paul Koughna, commended the Katsina State Government for its support.
He described the luncheon as a timely initiative in line with the COAS’s directive to strengthen troop morale in the fight against insecurity.
Also speaking, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mua’zu Nasiru, who represented Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, praised the troops for their commitment and gallantry in tackling crime and banditry.
He assured that the state government would continue to support security agencies through welfare and logistics while sustaining collaboration with relevant stakeholders to restore peace across the state.
The event ended with dignitaries, including representatives of the COAS and Governor Radda, personally serving the troops, underscoring a spirit of camaraderie and appreciation for their sacrifices in safeguarding national security.
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