By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
Barely a day after explosion suspected to be US back intervention rocked Jabo village in Tambuwal local government, Sokoto South Senatorial District and Mariyya and Alkasim villages of Tangaza local government, Sokoto North Senatorial District, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede represented by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Thursday hosted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to a special Christmas luncheon with troops of the North West Joint Task Force Operation Fassan Yamma at the 8 Division Giginya Army Barracks, Sokoto State.
Addressing troops at the laucheon, the CDS said it’s in line to consistently boost the morales and appreciate the sacrifices of the gallnat troops who have dedicated their strenght towards ensuring security and peace returned to the region.
“While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered.
“We shall not relent on our efforts, rather, the successes achieved has added more impetus to ensure we deliver in achieving our mission. Therefore, as we share this meal today, let us strengthen our bond as one formidable family and be reminded of the importance of unity and purpose in achieving our operational goals”, the CDS charged.
While appealing to troops to sustain collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, the CDS maintained that
continuous engagement with local communities will help in consolidating the desired peace.
The CDS who also
expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support for military operations nationwide,
reassured that welfare of the Nigerian Army remain his top priority, added that he is commited to improving not only their living and working conditions but also healthcare delivery and support for families of service members who have paid the supreme prince in line of active service to the nation.
He further admonsihed troops to adhere to the rules of engagement and have respect for human rights however said they must remain alert, vigilant, proactive and disciplined at all times and never sway from the mission by any false narrative.
On his part, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. General Waidi Shaibu represented by the Theater Commader, Joint Operation Fassan Yamma Task Force, Major General Warrah Idris said the Christmas luncheon remained a standing tradition for the Nigeria Army to recognise the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres.
The COAS who insisted that they also use the season for reflection, thanksgiving and remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer, added that, the legacies of fallen heros will never be forgotten.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigeria Army, Major General Ibikunke Ajose said the continued professionalism of the troops is paying off as stability is gradually returning to the north west States of Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara and Katsina as evident in the commuter safety recorded in these operational axis lately.
The GOC further divulged that several bandit kingpins and their foot soldiers have been neutralized lately with majority of their enclaves destroyed.
He also reassured that they will
continue to support those wounded in action, adding they must achieve their operational goals
“Permit me, at this point to use this medium to appreciate my gallant troops of the 8 Division Sector 2 Operation Fassan Yamma for their resilience and steadfastness, adding they have remained focused, disciplined and mission oriented.
“Know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. The Nigerian people are immensely proud of our efforts. You are th