By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has lauded frontline troops of the Nigerian Army for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation, describing them as the “backbone of Nigeria’s security.”
Lieutenant General Shaibu gave the commendation during a special Eid-el-Kabir luncheon organised for troops of 8 Division and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tureta in Sokoto State as part of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The event, held to boost morale and strengthen camaraderie among soldiers deployed in operational theatres, honoured troops who remain on the frontlines away from their families to ensure national security.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the COAS was represented at the occasion by the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut.
Delivering the COAS’ message, Major General Mutkut commended the troops for their discipline, courage and resilience in the face of security challenges.
He said the joint celebration underscored the Nigerian Army’s spirit of unity and family.
“Your dedication and sacrifices remain the backbone of our nation’s security. This luncheon is a reminder that the Nigerian Army stands together, not only in battle but also in celebration,” the COAS said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as strategic guidance and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army.
He reassured Nigerians of the Army’s determination to defend the country’s territorial integrity and sustain a secure environment necessary for economic growth and prosperity.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, reflected on the significance of Eid-el-Kabir, noting that the values of sacrifice, obedience and faith embodied in the festival resonate strongly with military service.
Major General Koughna praised the troops for their operational achievements against terrorist networks and their prompt responses to communal disturbances within the Division’s area of responsibility.
He further expressed gratitude to the COAS for the sustained provision of combat enablers, timely reinforcements and strong commitment to troop welfare.
The GOC urged the soldiers to remain focused and steadfast in their duties, while continuing to justify the confidence reposed in them by Nigerians.
The Eid-el-Kabir luncheon formed part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army leadership to strengthen troop welfare and sustain morale among personnel engaged in counter-terrorism and internal security operations across the country.
