COAS pledges to motivate troops, reposition Nigerian Army to achieve its mandate — National Accord Newspaper
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. T. A. Lagbaja has reiterated his commitment and determination to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving its constitutional responsibilities.
The COAS stated this on Monday in Maiduguri during an Easter Luncheon celebration for troops of Operation Hadin Kai.
“It gives me great pleasure to felicitate with officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the Nigerian Army, as well as our family members, on the occasion of Easter Celebration 2024. This year’s Easter Celebration is unique in that it coincides with the Ramadan fast”.
“Hence, it allows Christians and Muslims alike to reflect on God’s abundant grace on our nation, Nigeria and reminds us of the duties and sacrifices we must make towards God, humanity, and our beloved country.
“It also provides an opportunity to appreciate the love of God displayed through the sacrifices of our Lord Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind. The Lenten period characterized by self-denial, abstinence, prayers, and almsgiving, which heralded the Easter Celebration.
“It further reminds us of the sacrifices, sometimes supreme, that officers and men of the Nigerian Army make to ensure that our territorial integrity is preserved at all times. I, therefore, congratulate officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for witnessing the Year 2024 Easter Celebration”, he said.
The Army Chief, who was represented by the Theater Commander, Operation Hadin Kai North East JTF Command, Maj. Gen. Waheedi Shaibu, said he has so far ensured the implementation of quality training and provision of equipment towards combating the myriads of security threats confronting the nation ln line with his leadership philosophy.
The COAS urged all to continue to espouse the values and virtues of love, peace, and sacrifice in the discharge of our constitutional responsibilities.
He said,”under my leadership, the Nigerian Army has continued to record tremendous successes in various operations at home and abroad.”
” You all can attest to our achievements so far, especially in the ongoing Operation HADIN KAI in the North East and other internal security operations nationwide. As we continue to push towards the final onslaught on the adversaries troubling our nation.
,”I assure you that the welfare of officers and soldiers, including training and provision of the needed equipment, will always be prioritized to enable us to discharge our constitutional responsibilities effectively.
“Let me use this opportunity to acknowledge and thank you, my officers and soldiers, for your doggedness in tackling the numerous security challenges bedeviling us as a Nation,” Lagbaja said
COAS further commended the troops for their doggedness and sacrifices saying,” You have displayed much commitment, courage, resilience, and professionalism. ”
“For this, I say well done and charge you not to rest on your oars until we have eliminated all forms of threat to our country. While still grieving the recent unwarranted and gruesome murder of our colleagues in Okuama Community of Delta State, which occurred on 14 March 2024.
” I urge you all to remain steadfast, diligent, and committed to the discharge of our constitutional responsibilities. I encourage you to continue to pray for the repose of the souls of our departed colleagues who paid the supreme price for the noble cause of keeping our beloved country safe,” Lagbaja said
He also expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continuous support to the Nigerian Army and the confidence reposed on me to lead this great Army at this period in our Nation’s history.
