The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, have hosted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to a special Christmas luncheon at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State.
The morale-boosting event formed part of an operational visit to the Headquarters, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, aimed at appreciating the sacrifices of troops and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing operations across the North West.
Addressing officers and soldiers, General Oluyede extended Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline and unwavering commitment to duty, particularly as many Nigerians marked the festive season with their families.
“While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. You are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said.
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He praised the operational successes recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the efforts of the troops have helped restore public confidence and stabilise the North West and neighbouring states. He urged sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as continuous engagement with host communities to consolidate peace.
The CDS reassured personnel that troop welfare remains a top priority, pledging continued improvements in living and working conditions, healthcare delivery and support for families of servicemen and women. He also cautioned troops to maintain heightened vigilance during the festive period, warning that criminal elements often seek to exploit such occasions.
“Remain alert, proactive and disciplined at all times, strictly adhering to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights,” he advised.
General Oluyede expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his sustained support to military operations nationwide, assuring Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of criminality.
In his remarks, the COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing tradition of recognising the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops in operational theatres.
He noted that similar celebrations were taking place across other theatres of operation nationwide, adding that the season provides an opportunity to reflect, give thanks and honour fallen heroes whose sacrifices continue to secure the nation.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reiterated his Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, with emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and operational readiness.
He urged the troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct, while conveying the appreciation of the President and the gratitude of Nigerians for their selfless service.
Both Service Chiefs wished the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2026, while reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability.
, General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, have hosted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to a special Christmas luncheon at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State.){kind=link}