Kaduna, Nigeria – June 17, 2024 – The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has commended Nigerian Army troops for their unwavering commitment and gallantry in addressing the country’s security challenges.
Lagbaja gave the commendation during the Chief of Army Staff Sallah Luncheon with troops of Operation Whirl Punch in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on Sunday.
“There is no doubt that the ‘Feast of Sacrifice,’ as it is known, is one of the significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar during which Muslims demonstrate their obedience to Allah by sacrificing animals,” said Lagbaja, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), I Division Nigerian Army, and Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.
He emphasized that the Eid-el-Kabir celebration commemorates the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, and faith exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim. Lagbaja highlighted the importance of reflecting on the past year, as the celebration coincides with his nearing one-year anniversary as COAS.
“This year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration particularly calls for introspection on how we have fared as individuals and as an army this past year,” Lagbaja stated. He expressed gratitude for the relative peace restored to many parts of the country and acknowledged the significant sacrifices made by the troops in blood and treasure.
“It has been a year of unquantifiable sacrifice as we have lost gallant warriors and precious equipment in our ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, secessionist agitations, and oil-related economic crimes, amongst others,” he said. Lagbaja praised the troops for their courage and resilience in the face of grave danger, noting that many bear battle scars and deformities as badges of bravery.
He urged Nigerian Army personnel and their families to renew their commitment to personal sacrifice for the nation’s growth and development. “Your dedication is not unnoticed, and I assure you of my commitment to providing the leadership you require to train, live, and fight well,” he assured.
Lagbaja also extended his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and focused leadership, and to the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, and the Chief of Defence Staff for their strategic guidance. He thanked the Nigerian public for their continuous support and belief in the Nigerian Army.
“The Nigerian Army looks forward to more formidable collaboration to end all forms of insecurity and create an enabling environment for economic prosperity and other democratic dividends,” Lagbaja concluded.
, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has commended Nigerian Army troops for their unwavering commitment and gallantry in addressing the country's security challenges.){kind=link}