By Chigozie Dennis
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their courage, resilience and unwavering commitment in confronting terrorism, insurgency and banditry across the country.
Shaibu gave the commendation on Saturday while hosting troops serving within Abuja to a combined interfaith breaking of fast at the TA Lagbaja Banquet Hall, Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, an event that brought together personnel observing the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent.
The Army Chief used the occasion to pay glowing tribute to frontline troops deployed in various operational theatres, including the North-east, North-west and North-central, acknowledging their steadfast sacrifice in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens.
He noted that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent serves as a powerful reminder of sacrifice, discipline, patience and compassion, virtues, he said, that strongly resonate with the professional ethos of the Nigerian soldier.
According to him, many personnel observing the sacred periods continue to discharge their duties in extremely demanding operational environments, a demonstration of the deep patriotism and commitment that define the Nigerian Army.
Shaibu also emphasised the importance of leadership by example and sound administration, describing them as central pillars of his command philosophy, which prioritises troops’ welfare, family well-being, and the overall morale and preparedness of soldiers.
The Army Chief urged troops to preserve the strong bonds of comradeship that bind them together, reminding them that unity and the enduring warrior ethos remain critical to overcoming the nation’s evolving security challenges.
He further encouraged soldiers to support one another in the line of duty and to continually remember the nation’s fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defence of the country.
Reaffirming his vision for the force, Shaibu pledged to advance the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable and combat-ready institution capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency security environment.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Isa Abdullahi, described the interfaith gathering as a symbol of unity and shared purpose among soldiers of different faiths, noting that the event reinforces fellowship, solidarity and the enduring spirit of sacrifice required both in military service and spiritual devotion.