By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, has extended warm greetings to officers, soldiers and their families of the Nigerian Army on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration, urging them to sustain the values of discipline, sacrifice and unity cultivated during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a goodwill message to personnel, the Army Chief described Eid-el-Fitr as a deeply spiritual milestone marking the successful completion of a period defined by devotion, self-discipline and reflection, virtues he said resonate strongly with the ethos of military service.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu noted that this year’s observance of Ramadan held special significance as it coincided with the Christian Lenten season, creating what he termed a rare and symbolic moment of unity within the Nigerian Army. He said the simultaneous fasting and spiritual reflection by both Muslim and Christian personnel underscored the shared values that bind the Armed Forces despite differences in religious practices.
According to him, the convergence of the two sacred observances highlighted the Army’s collective strength, demonstrating that unity does not require uniformity. He stressed that the principles of sacrifice, humility, compassion and renewal common to both faiths are also foundational to the profession of arms.
Reflecting on the significance of the season, the COAS called on troops to remember and honour fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation. He paid tribute to their courage, patriotism and selfless service, noting that their sacrifices remain a source of inspiration and a driving force behind the Army’s continued commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
He also commended troops currently deployed across various theatres of operation, acknowledging their resilience and unwavering dedication despite operating in challenging and often austere environments far from their families. The Army Chief praised their courage and professionalism, describing them as the true embodiment of the Nigerian soldier’s spirit, while offering prayers for their safety and successful return.
Reaffirming his leadership priorities, Lt. Gen. Shaibu assured personnel that their welfare remains central to his command philosophy. He emphasised that the strength of the Army lies not only in its operational capabilities but also in the wellbeing and morale of its troops. He pledged continued efforts to improve living conditions, enhance professional development and strengthen support systems for military families.
The COAS further highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, expressing appreciation to sister services and other security and intelligence agencies for their cooperation and shared commitment to national stability.
He also conveyed the Army’s gratitude to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his sustained support, leadership and commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military.
As the nation marks Eid-el-Fitr, Lt. Gen. Shaibu urged personnel to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan by embracing compassion, discipline, humility and gratitude, while remaining steadfast in their duty to the nation.
He concluded by wishing all officers, soldiers and their families a peaceful, joyful and blessed Eid-el-Fitr celebration, and prayed for divine guidance, protection and renewed strength for all.
