The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has called on troops of Operation Fasan Yamma and other Nigerian Army formations to remain united, disciplined, and committed to defending the nation as Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.
Shaibu delivered the message on Sunday during a special Eid luncheon for frontline personnel within the 8 Division Area of Responsibility in Dan-Ali, Danmusa Local Government Area, Katsina State, represented by Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, Commander of the Infantry Corps and Centre. He described the occasion as both a celebration and an opportunity for reflection on service, sacrifice, and shared purpose.
“As we mark the joyous and spiritually uplifting occasion of Eid-el-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,” Shaibu said. He highlighted the unique overlap of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season, noting that shared spiritual discipline reinforces both faith and professional resilience.
Shaibu honoured fallen officers and soldiers, praised troops deployed in difficult operational theatres, and assured personnel of the Army’s commitment to their welfare, professional development, and morale. “Operational strength depends not only on weaponry but also on the confidence and well-being of our personnel,” he stated.
The COAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the Armed Forces’ welfare, operational readiness, and institutional growth. Maj.-Gen. Paul Koughna, General Officer Commanding 8 Division, and Katsina State officials, including Commissioner Mua’zu Nasiru, also commended the troops for their gallantry in combating insecurity.
The event concluded with dignitaries, including COAS representatives and state officials, personally serving the troops, reinforcing camaraderie and appreciation for their sacrifices in ensuring national security. Operation Fasan Yamma continues to target banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes across North-Western Nigeria, with the Army at the forefront of efforts to restore peace.