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19/10/2024

NIGERIAN ARMY OPERATIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES ON COURSE, CONTRARY TO INSINUATIONS IN THE MEDIA SPACE

Recently, the media space, especially social media, has been awash with stories, rumours, and innuendoes about happenings in the Nigerian Army(NA). While some of these are laughable and deserve no further reference, others have bordered on pure mischief calculated to cause panic and confusion within the rank and file, as well as the general public. Specifically, many insinuations about personnel postings, promotions, and even training activities have been raised vis-a-vis the official leave of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS). There have even been insinuations that there is a leadership vacuum, with officers confused about what to do. Nothing can be farther from the truth.

To be very clear, the Nigerian Army is a highly structured establishment with well-laid-out procedures and processes for dealing with different circumstances. Before proceeding on leave, necessary protocols were put in place for the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, to act on behalf of the COAS, while he is away. This is not peculiar to the NA as there have been instances where unforeseen human frailty kept service chiefs away for about three months, and their Chiefs of Policy and Plans held sway in their absence. Claims of leadership vacuum in the NA presently is therefore mere speculation, as all routine and scheduled activities of the Service are on course.

Indeed, in line with its Forecast of Events for 2024, the Nigerian Army recently conducted the Captain-Major Practical Promotion Examination in Akure. Subsequently and in line with extant procedures, the Commander Traning and Doctrine Command, Major General Kevin Aligbe, announced the result after due authorisation by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), who currently answers for the Chief of Army Staff in his absence on leave and medical checkup abroad. Additionally, the Master Warrant Officer to Army Warrant Officer Promotion Exercise is currently ongoing in Jos. This follows a similar exercise held for Warrant Officer to Master Warrant Officer (WO-MWO) in Kaduna. The results of these exercises are expected to be released in the coming days, pending final reconciliation between the respective Corps and the Army Headquarters Department of Personnel Management.

Contrary to the insinuation that the absence of the COAS occasioned by his leave, has caused undue delay in the release of the result of the WO-MWO promotion exercise, the NA wishes to clarify that it has never been the practice for the COAS to sign postings or promotions for both officers and soldiers in the NA. The appropriate departmental chiefs perform these functions routinely. These Departmental Chiefs, demonstrating their unwavering commitment, are fully carrying out their responsibilities in line with the COAS Command Philosophy.

The Army Headquarters, therefore, enjoins the general public to remain confident in the NA and be assured that the Service remains on top of the security situations in the country and is ever ready to defend Nigeria against any aggression on its land territory.

Meanwhile, the Army Headquarters wishes to thank all well-meaning Nigerians who have shown genuine concern about Lt Gen TA Lagbaja and have continued to pray for him. The Army Headquarters assures Nigerians and the international community that all land-related training, operational, and administrative activities are on course and that the COPP(A) is firmly and effectively running the affairs of the Service pending the return of the COAS.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
19 October 2024

*NATIONWIDE PROTEST*: KANO LOOTING VIDEO MISCONCEIVEDThe Nigerian Army (NA) has been notified of a viral video circulati...
02/08/2024

*NATIONWIDE PROTEST*: KANO LOOTING VIDEO MISCONCEIVED

The Nigerian Army (NA) has been notified of a viral video circulating in the social media, insinuating that troops participated in the looting spree by some unscrupulous persons who took advantage of the protest to perpetrate the looting that occurred on Thursday, 1 August 2024 in Kano.

The NA by this statement wishes to set the record straight and correct this misinformation. Contrary to the misconception portrayed in the purported video, soldiers of 3 Brigade NA responded to a distress call of hoodlums’ attack on Barakat Stores in the metropolis, the swift intervention of the soldiers however prevented the hoodlums from having a filled day. The troops intercepted *some of* the hoodlums and recovered some of the looted items, which they were conveying back to the Store, when another distress call of a planned attack on the Kano State Government House was received. Considering the urgency of the imminent attack, the troops immediately diverted to respond to the distress call in order to protect the Government House from the hoodlums’ attack. *It was in the course of the response to distress call about possible attack on Kano Government House, that the video was shot. The fluidity and urgency of the distress call explain why troops in the video were not overly bothered when some hoodlums even stole from the troops' truck while in motion. At that juncture, preventing the attack on the Government House was more expedient.*

Troops have since moved the recovered gallons of cooking oil and other items back to the store, where they were safely handed-over to the rightful owner. The management of Barakat stores has acknowledged and appreciated the effort of the troops and their professional conduct in a letter conveyed by the organization’s General Manager.

The NA commends the troops for their swift effort and professional conduct in maintaining law and order and prevention of wanton looting by the hoodlums. These actions demonstrate the NA’s commitment and resolve to protect lives and property of the citizenry.

We urge the public to be cautious of misinformation and verify facts before drawing conclusions. We appreciate the cooperation and support of law-abiding members of the public in ensuring peace and safety at this critical moment.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
2 August 2024

*NADCEL 2024:  "PRAY FERVENTLY FOR THE REPOSE OF THE SOULS OF FALLEN HEROES - COAS TO PERSONNEL* The Chief of Army Staff...
30/06/2024

*NADCEL 2024: "PRAY FERVENTLY FOR THE REPOSE OF THE SOULS OF FALLEN HEROES - COAS TO PERSONNEL*

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has enjoined Nigerian Army (NA)personnel to keep praying for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes, who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty defending Nigeria.

Gen Lagbaja gave the charge on Sunday 30 June 2024, at the interdenominational church service in commemoration of Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024, held at the All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.

In a goodwill message delivered at the Church Service, the Army Chief urged the troops to also remember to pray for the speedy physiological and psychological recovery of personnel who suffered injuries during operations in defence of the Nigerian nation and the citizenry, adding that they laid down their lives and sacrificed body parts to defend the territorial integrity of the nation. He pointed out, that this year's NADCEL theme, "Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment", highlights Nigerian Army’s responsibility to promote national unity, integration, and development. Gen Lagbaja maintained that the theme underscores the Army’s commitment to aligning with the overall policy dynamics underpinning contemporary security and defence management in the country and beyond.

The COAS, noted that Nigeria today boasts of an Army that is globally reckoned with, victory-focused and understands the underlying spiritual component of fighting power, and ascribes operational successes to God, as conspicuously captured by its motto: "Victory is from God Alone".

While lauding the troops for their operational doggedness and commitment, General Lagbaja charged them to maintain the highest standards of service and self-discipline, as well as to do their best in making the NADCEL 2024 a worthwhile celebration.

The COAS appreciated the Preident, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unrelenting support to the NA and pledged the unalloyed loyalty of officers and soldiers of the NA to the Constitution, Government and people of Nigeria. He equally expressed appreciation to the National Assembly, the Ministers of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff and fellow Service Chiefs as well as heads of other security agencies for their guidance, understanding, and collaboration with the Nigerian Army. The Army Chief enjoined all Nigerians to continue to support and partner with the NA to collectively defeat the adversaries of the nation.

The NADCEL 2024 interdenominational church service was attended by Principal Staff Officers from Army and Services Headquarters, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, National President Nigerian Army Officers Wives' Association Mrs Mariya Lagbaja and members of the Association, members of Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives' Association, serving and retired officers and their families as well as several well wishers. The highlight of the event was the NADCEL 2024 Special Thanksgiving.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
30 June 2024

*NADCEL 2024: NIGERIAN ARMY HOLDS JUMA'AT PRAYERS ACROSS ITS FORMATIONS* ..Offer prayers for the unity of the nation and...
28/06/2024

*NADCEL 2024: NIGERIAN ARMY HOLDS JUMA'AT PRAYERS ACROSS ITS FORMATIONS* ..Offer prayers for the unity of the nation and the success of NA operations.

The Nigeria Army (NA) on Friday, 28 June 2024, held Juma'at prayers across its formations and units in the country to kick start activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024. Muslim faithful converged at the Guards Brigade Mosque, Mambila Barracks, Asokoro in Abuja to observe the special Juma'at prayers.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja disclosed that the Juma'at was essential to thank the Almighty Allah for the successes and progress of the NA in the past 161 years of its existence and to further pray for peace and unity of Nigeria.

The COAS, who was represented by the Director General Land Forced Simulation Center, Major General Usman Yusuf, explained that the Juma'at was significant to seek the blessings of Allah for continuous success in all NA engagements. He urged all personnel to remain loyal, steadfast, and disciplined as they carryout their constitutional responsibilities.

During the prayers, the Chief Imam, Guards Brigade Mosque, Captain Salisu Musa offered special prayers for the Nigerian nation and the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He also offered special prayers for the leaders of the country and personnel of the NA.

Present at the special Juma'at Prayers were the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army) Maj Gen Abdulsalami Ibrahim, Chief of Transformation and Innovation Maj Gen Zakari Abubakar, Director Plans (DAPP) Maj Gen Farouk Mijinyawa, Provost Marshall (Army) Brig Gen Abubakar Garba amongst other senior officers, soldiers and their families.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
28 June 2024

PRESS RELEASE NPF CLARIFIES TRENDING TERRORISTS VIDEO, WARNS AGAINST DISINFORMATION, ATTEMPT TO GENERATE PANIC AMONGST C...
27/06/2024

PRESS RELEASE
NPF CLARIFIES TRENDING TERRORISTS VIDEO, WARNS AGAINST DISINFORMATION, ATTEMPT TO GENERATE PANIC AMONGST CITIZENS, RESIDENTS OF NIGERIA

The Nigeria Police Force hereby addresses a trending video depicting a group of persons suspected to be armed terrorists carrying assault rifles and other dangerous weapons with a commentary in Hausa language claiming they were migrating from Benin Republic to Nigeria, which has recently gained significant attention in the news and caused widespread concern.

After thorough and detailed video graphic analysis conducted by the NPF Cybercrime Centre, it has been confirmed that the video in question was originally created and circulated on 28th May, 2018. Our findings reveal that the video was recently reposted with a misleading narrative and deliberate intention to cause unnecessary panic and disruption within the country.

While urging the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, the Nigeria Police Force issues a strong warning to individuals who engage in the deliberate spread of false information, an act which is unpatriotic, criminal and punishable under the law reiterating that such can cause significant harm, incite panic, and heat up the polity. The Police frowns at such act and assures that anyone found to be involved in the creation and/or dissemination of misleading content will face the full extent of the law.

We encourage everyone to rely on official channels for accurate updates and to report any suspicious activities or content to the authorities.

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
FOR: INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

26th June 2024

*RUNDUNAR SOJIN K'ASAN NAJERIYA TA K'ARYATA ZARGIN DAUKAR Y'AN TA'ADDA AIKI*Rundunar sojin k'asan Najeriya ta karyata wa...
26/06/2024

*RUNDUNAR SOJIN K'ASAN NAJERIYA TA K'ARYATA ZARGIN DAUKAR Y'AN TA'ADDA AIKI*

Rundunar sojin k'asan Najeriya ta karyata wani labari da ke yawo a kafofin yanar gizo cewa ta na d'aukar y'an ta'adda masu da'awar jihadi.

Rundunar ta bayyana cewa, labarin k'arya ce wadda ba ta dace da martaba da kuma kimar ta ba. Haka kuma wani shiri ne na haddasa husuma da kawo rarraba a tsakanin dakaru, musamman musa bin addinin kiristanci da Wad'anda ba musulmai ba domin haddasa rikicin addini a k'asa.

Rundunar sojin k'asan Najeriya na tabbatar wa dukkan y'an k'asa cewa ita k'wararriyar runduna ce wanda ba ruwan ta da Kabilanci ko banbancin addini. Haka kuma, ayyuka da tsare tsaren rundunar na gudana ne kamar yadda tsarin mulkin k'asa ya tanada.

Rundunar na k'ara kira ga al'umma da su yi watsi da wannan labarin k'arya maras tushe. Haka kuma duk rashin bin tanadadden tsari zai samar da horo ba tare da fifiko akan mai laifi ba.

Rundunar sojin k'asan Najeriya na tabbatar da jajircewarta wajen bautar k'asa da kare dukiyoyi da rayukan y'an Najeriya ba tare da banbancin addini ko Kabilanci ba.

MANJO JANAR ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
DARAKTAN WATSA LABARAI NA RUNDUNAR SOJIN K'ASAN NAJERIYA
25 YUNI 2024

VIRAL AUDIO-VISUAL REPORT ON NIGERIAN ARMY RECRUITING JIHADISTS AIMED AT SOWING DISCORD, CAUSING RELIGIOUS CRISISThe att...
25/06/2024

VIRAL AUDIO-VISUAL REPORT ON NIGERIAN ARMY RECRUITING JIHADISTS AIMED AT SOWING DISCORD, CAUSING RELIGIOUS CRISIS

The attention of the Nigerian Army (NA) has been drawn to an audio-visual recording circulating on various online platforms, purportedly showing a misleading report suggesting that the NA is recruiting Islamic fundamentalists and jihadists. The footage also falsely portrayed an officer calling on Muslim young men to join the military to protect and propagate Islam.

Considering the gravity of these falsehood, the NA wishes to clearly state that the narrative depicted in the footage is not in any instance a reflection of the true values and standards of the NA, as it is targeted at sparking palpable anxiety and fear, sowing discord and mistrust amongst our personnel, eroding public confidence in the integrity of the NA, particularly among Christian and non-Muslim communities, who might feel their lives and faith are under threat, and ultimately engender religious crisis in the country.

The NA remains steadfast in upholding professionalism and impartiality as an institution devoid of ethnic and religious bigotry. Our operational and administrative processes and actions are guided by the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and not ethnicity or religious sentiments.

We, therefore, urge the public to dismiss this misleading report, which evidently stems from a misconception and lack of understanding about NA's Standing Operating Procedures (SOP).

It is crucial to reiterate that any deviation from the NA’s SOP is met with appropriate disciplinary action, regardless of the personnel's religious affiliation.

We call on all citizens to rise above these divisive tactics and stand united. The strength of Nigeria lies in her unity in diversity, and it is this unique national strength and trait that the NA seeks to protect while carrying out its constitutional responsibilities. We will remain undaunted in upholding these principles in the face of any challenge.

The NA remains committed to serving and protecting all Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations. Let us work together to maintain the peace and unity of our great nation.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
25 June 2024

TODAY IN HISTORYOn this day, the 23rd June 2023, the Chief of the Naval Staff(CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogal...
23/06/2024

TODAY IN HISTORY

On this day, the 23rd June 2023, the Chief of the Naval Staff(CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, took over office from his predecessor, having being appointed by the President Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 19 June 2023.

In the past one year, the CNS has made giant strides in all areas of the Nigerian Navy. From Operations to Fleet Renewal and Infrastructural Development,
from Personnel Welfare, to Training and Manpower Development, from Maritime Stakeholders Engagement, to Interagency Cooperation and Youths & Sports Development there have been paradigm shifts and quantum leaps of positive achievements.

Today, the Nigerian Navy is at its highest state of operational readiness and ranks as the 4th largest Navy in Africa.

All these are a testament to Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla's commitment to shaping the Nigerian Navy (NN) into a professionally competent and ethical naval force while leveraging on all elements of national power for the effective defence of Nigeria's maritime area of interest against all form of threat in fulfilment of national security imperatives.

Happy Anniversary to the CNS and NN family.


*COAS PLEDGES SUPPORT TO NAOWA* ..as Mrs Mariya Lagbaja marks one year of selfless service as NAOWA PresidentThe Chief o...
22/06/2024

*COAS PLEDGES SUPPORT TO NAOWA* ..as Mrs Mariya Lagbaja marks one year of selfless service as NAOWA President

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has pledged to sustain Nigerian Army’s support to the Nigerian Army Officers Wives' Association (NAOWA), as the association celebrates Mrs Mariya Lagbaja’s one-year anniversary of selfless service to humanity, as the National President of the Association. Gen Lagbaja gave the assurance on Saturday, 22 June 2024, at the Army Headquarters Command Officers' Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, during a brief ceremony to mark the anniversary themed, "Journey So Far: Next Level".

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS), who was also the Special Guest of Honour reflected on the association’s achievements over the past year and saluted the NAOWA President for providing purposeful and impactful leadership to the organization in the past one year since her assumption of office. He added, that the untiring efforts, doggedness, and commitment of NAOWA, especially with the humanitarian interventions, provision of modern structures and cutting-edge facilities have improved the living standards of members, as well as Barracks and neighbouring communities.

Appreciating the leadership of NAOWA, the Army Chief lauded the National President for exceptional ability to shoulder enormous responsibilities, describing her as a 'perfectionist who pushes herself beyond her limit to break barriers and attain her objectives'.

As the association enters its second year under the current dispensation, the COAS challenged the association to expand the frontiers of its activities in close concert with the Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives' Association (NASWA) to accommodate wider participation by the women.

The COAS assured NAOWA of Army Headquarters’ support in achieving her goals, even more than it was able to accomplish in the past year. Emphasizing the enormous benefits of NAOWA and NASWA, the COAS declared that the AHQ will collaborate more closely with both associations to realize the sound administration beam of his Command Philosophy and its associated pillars of welfare and support to the home front.

Earlier in her address, the President, Nigerian Army Officers Wives' Association, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja expressed gratitude to God and all NAOWA members for their support and cooperation, which she maintained, enabled the association achieve her goals in the past year.

The President remarked that the celebration marks the remarkable journey the association has undertaken together and plans for a progressive course for the future. She averred that it is also a moment to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of every NAOWA member, whose unwavering support has been a backbone to the modest but remarkable successes so far made by NAOWA.

Reminiscing on the past year, Mrs Lagbaja expressed appreciation for the collective achievements accomplished by NAOWA, pointing out, that over the past 12 months, the association has embarked on numerous humanitarian activities and initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of its members, neighbouring communities and supporting the humanitarian efforts of the Nigerian Army.

She disclosed that NAOWA has also commissioned several projects initiated by NAOWA Chairpersons and Coordinators across the country. This, she noted, effectively demonstrates that NAOWA leaders at all levels, fully embrace her vision of sustaining legacies through unwavering commitment to unity and service for the betterment of humanity.
She informed that NAOWA will soon commission some of her transformation projects, including the modernized national secretariat, an Ultra-modern Event centre and a Recreational park. Mrs Lagbaja described the projects as testaments to NAOWA's collective effort in creating lasting and meaningful impact within the society.

The NAOWA President expressed appreciation to Nigeria's first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her guidance, unflinching support and encouragement to NAOWA, which she stressed, have immensely contributed to NAOWAS' success. She also extolled the first lady for her commitment to the wellbeing of military families, women, and children across the nation. Mrs Lagbaja also expressed gratitude to the COAS and all personnel of the NA for their selflessness and support to NAOWA.

The event was attended by the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, dignitaries from various sectors of the society, Principal Staff Officers from the Army Headquarters, members of NAOWA and NASWA as well as staff and students of NAOWA Schools in Abuja.

Highlights of the ceremony were the official launching of NAOWA President’s "Next Level Transformation Initiative," and cutting of the one-year anniversary cake.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
22 June 2024

*AIRING OF AUDIO-VISUAL DOCUMENTARY TO COMMEMORATE COAS' ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY* Please be informed that a 60 minute  docu...
21/06/2024

*AIRING OF AUDIO-VISUAL DOCUMENTARY TO COMMEMORATE COAS' ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY*

Please be informed that a 60 minute documentary titled " WALKING THE TALK: ONE YEAR REPORT OF ACTUALIZING THE CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF COMMAND PHILOSOPHY TOWARDS TRANSFORMING THE NIGERIAN ARMY" will be aired to commemorate the one year anniversary of the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja in office.

Accordingly, the documentary is scheduled to be aired as follows:

a. NTA - Friday 21 June 2024 from 6 pm - 7 pm.

b. TVC - Saturday 22 June 2024 from
9 pm - 10 pm.

c. Arise TV - Sunday 23 June 2024 from
8 pm - 9 pm.

d. Channels TV - Monday 24 June 2024 from 5 pm - 6 pm

Kindly watch and inform others

*SALLAH LUNCHEON: COAS COMMENDS TROOPS RESILIENCE ON THE GAINS AGAINST INSURGENTS...Commissions Office and Road Projects...
17/06/2024

*SALLAH LUNCHEON: COAS COMMENDS TROOPS RESILIENCE ON THE GAINS AGAINST INSURGENTS...Commissions Office and Road Projects*

The Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has commended troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) on the occasion of the Eid-El-Kabir celebration for the gains so far made in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the North East Theatre, urging them to sustain the momentum. General Lagbaja gave the commendation in Maiduguri on Monday, 17 June 2024, while celebrating the Eid-El-Kabir with troops at the front lines.

Speaking further, the COAS stated that, "As an Army, it has been a year of unquantifiable sacrifices in blood and treasure, as we have lost gallant warriors and precious equipment to the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency." He acknowledged the dedication of the troops, many of whom, he said, 'still bear the physical and emotional scars of battle', adding, that they have displayed uncommon courage in the face of daunting challenges and have always emerged victorious.

In appreciation, the COAS thanked the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic guidance and support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in providing requisite platforms that have contributed to the overall success of ongoing operations. Gen Lagbaja equally appreciated the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and other Service Chiefs for their joint effort in the fight against the nation's adversaries.

Prior to the luncheon, the COAS had commissioned a number of projects in Maimalari Cantonment, including newly constructed Headquarters 47 Engineers Brigade Office complex, a newly constructed road named Major General YM Abubakar Drive and another newly rehabilitated connecting road.

In his welcome address, the Theatre Commander, JTF NE OPHK, Major General Waidi Shaibu congratulated the COAS for attaining one year in office since he assumed command as the 23rd COAS on 23 June 2023, describing the his one year tenure as a highly productive year. The Theatre Commander emphasized that the presence of the COAS in the theatre was not only to mark the Eid-El-Kabir Celebration, but to also witness the modest gains in troops' offensive operations from January to date across the Theatre. He catalogued the several recoveries made by the gallant troops to include, one each of VBL, MOWAG APC, PHANTOM MRAP, PROFORCE MRAP, CAMEL MRAP, LOW BED, and other vehicles with various degrees of damage by insurgent actions which have been repaired by the Theatre Main Repair Group. He pointed out that it was expedient to showcase the repaired assets captured and recovered from the insurgents in order to discourage the practice of adding more to the equipment graveyard in the theatre.
He enthused that the initiative of repairing captured and recovered platforms and vehicles is in conformity with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, “To transform the NA into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment''.

The Theatre Commander further avered that the displayed items are to also highlight the effectiveness of the theatre's operational engagements through the doggedness and bravery of the troops.

"The rescued hostages, surrendered women and children, neutralized JAS/ISWAP fighters, as well as captured and recovered equipment and platforms are not mere symbols of victory, but a significant representation of the sacrifices of our gallant troops across the Theatre", Gen Shuaibu declared.

Highlights of the event were the display of large cache of arms, platforms, and other equipment recovered from terrorists and insurgents, as well as the dishing of food by the COAS to officers and soldiers, who were wounded in action and currently receiving medical attention at the Headquarters 7 Division Military Hospital and Services.

The occasion was witnessed by Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, Force Commander Multinational Joint Task Force and Theatre Commander OPHK. Others are Deputy Force Commander MNJTF, Deputy Theatre Commander, GOC 7 Division, officers, and troops of OPHK.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director Army Public Relations
17 June 2024

EID EL KABIR CELEBRATION 2024: COAS CELEBRATES WITH FRONTLINE TROOPS IN  BIRNIN GWARIThe Chief of Army Staff (COAS),  Li...
17/06/2024

EID EL KABIR CELEBRATION 2024: COAS CELEBRATES WITH FRONTLINE TROOPS IN BIRNIN GWARI

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has extended hearty felicitations and commendation to frontline troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army/Operation Whirl Punch and members of their families on the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir.

The COAS who was represented by the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation Whirl Punch Maj Gen MLD Saraso stated this on Sunday 16 June 2024 during a special Sallah Luncheon organised for frontline troops at Forward Operation Base Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State.

In his goodwill massage to the troops which was read by his representative, the COAS highlighted the profound significance of Eid' El Kabir, also known as the "Feast of Sacrifice."

Pointing out that the festival symbolizes the virtues of obedience and sacrifice, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah's command. "There is no doubt that the Feast of Sacrifice is one of the significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar during which Muslims demonstrate their obedience to Allah by sacrificing animals."

He used the opportunity to acknowledge the immense sacrifices made by the gallant troops. "As an Army, it has been a year of unquantifiable sacrifice in blood and treasure as we have lost gallant warriors and precious equipment to our ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, secessionist agitations, and oil-related economic crimes, amongst others," he said.

Lt Gen Lagbaja praised the courage and dedication of the soldiers, many of whom he said bear the physical and emotional scars of battle. "Our men have displayed uncommon courage and faith in our dear country in the face of grave danger and, like the good soldiers that they are, come out victorious for our nation."

The COAS called on the troops and their families to use this occasion to renew their commitment to the nation's growth and development. "As we commemorate this 'Feast of Sacrifice,' I enjoin Nigerian Army personnel and their family members to renew their commitment to personal sacrifice for the growth and development of our great country, Nigeria," he said while reassuring the gallant frontline troops of 1 Division and Operation Whirl Punch that their efforts do not go unnoticed.

He expressed his deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for his unwavering support and focused leadership. "I express my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his unwavering support and focused leadership," he said. He thanked the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Minister of State Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff for their strategic guidance, and the general public for their continuous support and belief in the Army.

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to the welfare of its personnel. "I assure you of my commitment to providing the leadership you require to train, live, and fight well. I salute your courage and resilience. Your efforts are crucial to our national security, and I assure you that your sacrifices will not go unnoticed."

The representative of the COAS and GOC 1 Division Maj Gen MLD Saraso used the opportunity of the Sallah Luncheon in honour of frontline troops to paid homage to His Royal Highness, the Emir and Amir of Birnin Gwari Alhaji Zubair Jibrin Mai Gwari II at his palace.

The Sallah Luncheon was well attended by frontline troops of 1 Division and Operation Whirl Punch, traditional and community leaders, heads of security agencies and paramilitary organisations from Birnin Gwari and environs, and all formation commanders and principal staff officers of Headquarters 1 Division and Operation WHIRL PUNCH.

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