By Nkechi Eze
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has celebrated the success of Operation Lake Sanity 2 with a medal presentation ceremony, honoring the bravery and sacrifices of its troops. The ceremony took place at the MNJTF Headquarters in Farcha, N’Djamena, Chad, and was attended by the Minister of Armed Forces, Veteran and War Victims of Chad, Issaka Maluoa Djamous, as the Special Guest of Honour.
The Honourable Minister of Defence Chad, while delivering his address, praised the troops for their outstanding bravery and dedication during the operation, stating that their success in Operation Lake Sanity 2 marked a significant milestone. He also acknowledged the troops’ unwavering commitment and immense sacrifices, which he believed were a testament to their remarkable achievements.
The Special Guest of Honour highlighted the vital role of collaboration between the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and national forces in achieving peace and stability in the sub-region. Emphasizing the power of unity and teamwork, the SGOH noted that these efforts have laid the groundwork for lasting peace in a region long plagued by instability.
The SGOH also took a moment to honour the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the operation, reassuring that their sacrifices will always be remembered and cherished.
While delivering his welcome remarks, Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), highlighted significant achievements under Operation Lake Sanity 2 (OPLS 2) over the past year. The accomplishments include:
Repatriation Efforts: Successfully repatriating over 30,000 refugees and internally displaced persons,
Counter-Terrorism Operations: Dismantling crucial terrorist logistical bases, neutralizing over 310 terrorists, and crippling their operational capabilities.
These achievements demonstrate the task force’s commitment to restoring stability and security in the region.
General Ali also reiterated that OPLS 2 also led to the arrest of over 160 logistics suppliers and informants as well as the surrender of more than 800 terrorists and their families as well as the recovery of significant arms and ammunition, indicating a decline in support for terrorism.
Major General Ali extended heartfelt thanks to the Lake Chad Basin Commission for their unwavering support and strategic guidance throughout the operation. Specifically, he acknowledged the Head of Mission’s invaluable contributions. The General also praised the visionary leadership of his predecessors, whose successful execution of previous operations like AMNI FAKAT, GAMA AIKI, and YANCIN TAFKI laid the foundation for the accomplishments of OPLS 2.
The occasion was graced by the Head of Mission MNJTF, Governors and Chiefs of Defence Staff of Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) and Key Military Commanders from national forces. Others are top government functionaries from Chad, Royal Fathers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and specially invited guests. Highlights of the ceremony include the decoration of the FC, DFC, sector commanders and troops for their outstanding contributions to OPLS 2.
The Chiefs of Defence Staff of the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) received the prestigious OPLS 2 Medal in recognition of their outstanding contributions to regional peace and stability. Additionally, families of soldiers who were wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice during the operation were presented with tokens of appreciation, symbolizing the Multinational Joint Task Force’s (MNJTF) deepest gratitude and respect. The ceremony came to a close with the commissioning of the newly renovated MNJTF Photo Stand by the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH).
