By Nkechi Eze
In a strong show of solidarity, appreciation and leadership presence at the frontlines, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 26 December 2025, hosted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to a special Christmas luncheon at the Giginya Cantonment in Sokoto State.
The morale-boosting engagement formed part of an operational visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, aimed at appreciating the sacrifices of troops, boosting their fighting spirit and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing counter-terrorism and internal security operations across the North West. This was disclosed in an official signed statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
Addressing officers and soldiers at the well-attended luncheon, the Chief of Defence Staff conveyed warm Yuletide greetings to the troops and commended them for their courage, discipline and unwavering commitment to national duty, particularly at a period when many Nigerians were celebrating the festive season with their families.
“While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said, drawing applause from the troops.
General Oluyede praised the significant operational gains recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the sustained efforts and sacrifices of the troops have played a critical role in restoring public confidence and stabilising the North West geopolitical zone and adjoining states. He stressed the importance of sustaining synergy with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as deepening engagement with local communities to consolidate peace and deny criminal elements safe havens.
Reaffirming his concern for the welfare of personnel, the CDS assured the troops that their wellbeing remains a top priority, pledging continued improvements in living and working conditions, healthcare delivery and support for families of serving personnel. He further charged the troops to maintain heightened vigilance throughout the festive period, warning that criminal elements often seek to exploit such periods to undermine security.
“Remain alert, proactive and disciplined at all times, strictly adhering to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights. Do not be swayed by false narratives or propaganda,” he cautioned.
The CDS also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to military operations nationwide, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces would remain resolute and committed in the fight against terrorism and all forms of criminality.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing military tradition designed to recognise the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in various operational theatres across the country.
“It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment to celebrate Christmas with you, our gallant troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff. While we make merry here, similar luncheons are ongoing across other operational theatres in the country,” the COAS revealed.
Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the Christmas season offers an opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving and solemn remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer. He assured the troops that the Nigerian Army remains committed to honouring its fallen personnel by supporting their families and preserving their legacy.
He reiterated his Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, with strong emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and sustained operational readiness. The COAS urged the troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct at all times, while conveying the appreciation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the gratitude of well-meaning Nigerians for their selfless service.
Both Service Chiefs jointly reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful, secure and prosperous New Year 2026.
