By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended troops of Operation UDO KA for their resilience and sustained offensive operations that have significantly degraded the activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, in the South-East.
The commendation was conveyed during the Chief of Army Staff Special Sallah Luncheon held at Mother Valley in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, a location previously identified as a major stronghold of insurgent elements.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the COAS, who was represented by the Chief of Training (Army), Valentine Okoro, praised frontline troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty.
He noted that the troops’ success in clearing entrenched hideouts and dismantling terrorist networks despite the persistent threat of improvised explosive devices demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s combat effectiveness and operational superiority in the theatre.
Reaffirming the Army’s core mandate, Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that the force remains disciplined, professional, and mission-oriented in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the protection of lives and property.
The Army Chief also commended the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA, Oluremi Fadairo, for fostering strong inter-agency collaboration with sister services, other security outfits, and host communities. He said this synergy has continued to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and deliver tangible results on the ground.
In line with the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, the COAS extended goodwill to wounded personnel undergoing treatment, assuring them of sustained institutional support for their recovery and welfare.
The event highlighted the Army’s growing operational successes in neutralising hostile elements and restoring normalcy across the South-East. The Nigerian Army also called on residents of the region to continue supporting security efforts by providing credible and timely information, stressing that collective action remains key to consolidating the gains achieved and securing lasting peace.
