BY Suleiman Adamu, Sokoto
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has charged officers and men of the Nigerian Army to remain vigilant, focused and continue to exemplify the finest traditions of the armed forces during operations.
Accordingly, Oluyede stressed ” embrace and operate within the core values of loyalty, discipline, courage and selfless service on which foundation the Army was built.”
General Oluyede said in a goodwill message at a special Eid-el- Adha celebration lunch on Friday with troops of Operation Fansan Yamma , 8 Division Army Headquarters, Sokoto.
The top most army head described Eid-el-Adha occasion as not only a religious moment of sharing but also for the army to reflect on values that unite citizens by protecting the country for peace and stability.
He urged them to remain united, vigilant , focused and redouble their efforts towards removing all encumbrances to peace within their areas of responsibilities.
According to the COAS ” together and collectively we will achieve transformative victories in all our operational theatres especially Operation Fansan Yamma”, he stated.
Oluyede noted that sacrifice was a noble act and value exemplified daily by the Army in view of it’s unwavering commitment to the course of protecting the country stressing that ” especially in JTF Northwest operation Fansan Yamma”
While acknowledging the giant strides , Oluyede added” your commitment to duty remain a sour e of inspiration to us all.
” You embody the true spirit of patriotism , standing tall agai at threats to our nation’s peace and stability”, he pointed out.
Hitherto, the COAS represented by the Commander Cyber Warfare Command, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga assured of extending more support to army to enable effective and efficient operations were successfully carried out.
” Your welfare and families are key and top most priority. The NA under my leadership remain resolute in prioritizing your welfare and enhancing operational capabilities by providing combat enablers , logistics , training and moral support to ensure you remain a formidable force against all threats.
He appreciated and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his deliberate support to the army.
Oluyede also recognised and appreciated the troops for their bravery, resilience and show of professionalism.
” Uphold the ideals of NA and defend the sovereignty of our dear nation.”
Earlier in his welcome , General Officer Commanding 8 Division Army Headquarters , Sokoto , Major General Ibikunle Ajose said officers and men of the the division operation Fansan Yamma remain formidable force in driving the COAS philosophy with respect for the core and noble values that defined the army profession.
” These have guaranteed the 8 Division troops and Sector 2 operation Fansan Yamma’s commitment for its modest achievements especially in safeguarding and securing the once dreaded Funtua-Gusau-Sokoto road for consistent and continued operations for commuters without fear including safeguarding lives across 4 states of Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara “, he mentioned.
” This occasion is beyond celebration but we should see it as one for stock taking to reflect and redefine our collective sacrifices, achievements and resolve as a team.
” The presence of the COAS is deeply inspiring especially when troops are intensifying efforts with utmost dedication towards restoring lasting peace in respective areas of responsibilities”
Ajose while reaffirming the loyalty of the 8 Division Officers and men to the course of filed operations, also gingered their spirit saying ” Your resilience, commitment and sacrifices are efforts not unnoticed by the Nigerian people who are also proud of you. We are equally proud of your efforts as true heroes of our nation. I am proud to lead such a disciplined and determined team.
” Also will like to appreciate and inspire the spirits of our injured officers and men with varied degrees of injuries sustained during operations. I commend you all and assure you of the best treatment as we pray for the wounds to heal.”
