The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to securing Nigeria as he celebrated Eid-el-Fitr with wounded soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital.
The COAS made this pledge during a Sallah Luncheon with Sick and Wounded in Action Personnel and troops deployed on operations in 1 Division’s Area of Responsibility on Sunday in Kaduna.
Oluyede, represented by the Commander Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, praised their sacrifices and assured them that they had not been forgotten.
He explained that most soldiers sustained injuries during operations in the northeast and northwest, including Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fansanyamma.
The Army chief reiterated his commitment to national security, highlighting successes in clearing the corridor from Kano to Abuja.
“We are making significant gains in our operations and will continue until our country is fully secured,” he said.
While acknowledging setbacks, Oluyede expressed optimism about progress, attributing successes to the troops’ resilience, alertness, and determination.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, said the security situation in the division’s Area of Responsibility remains volatile, complex, and unpredictable.
Saraso, however, stated that stability had been maintained, as seen in the improved security along the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari and Abuja-Kaduna road and rail corridors.
He noted that several kidnap victims had been rescued and released unconditionally, while many bandits had surrendered due to proactive kinetic and non-kinetic measures.
“These modest successes have been achieved through the dedication and sacrifices of our gallant troops,” he said.
In line with the COAS’s command philosophy, Saraso stressed the need to keep troops motivated to fulfil their duties effectively.
He said the luncheon was a token of appreciation for their hard work and sacrifices.
Saraso added that it reinforced the division’s commitment to securing its Area of Responsibility and eliminating safe havens for terrorists or insurgents.
He thanked the COAS for providing resources to organise the event despite the Army’s competing demands.
The Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD), Brig.-Gen. Godwin Ogoh, appreciated the COAS’s unwavering commitment to soldiers’ welfare.
“The luncheon is more than a leadership gesture; it is a message of solidarity, care, and deep respect for those who have sacrificed for our nation,” he said.
Ogoh stated that the occasion had lifted spirits and reinforced faith in courage, sacrifice, and unity in service.
(NAN)
