Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, has hailed the troops for their unwavering commitment to addressing the security challenges prevalent in the country.
He conveyed his appreciation to the soldiers for the significant calmness reinstated in numerous previously turbulent regions across the nation.
A statement released on Sunday by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, disclosed Lagbaja’s sentiments in a goodwill message to the troops.
According to excerpts from the statement, Lagbaja expressed, “The Chief of Army Staff extends warm greetings and commendations to the troops of the Nigerian Army and their families on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, praising their dedication and bravery in confronting arising security threats in the country.
“In his address to the Muslim community in the Nigerian Army, the COAS characterized Eid-el-Kabir as a significant festival highlighting the importance of sacrifice in both human and divine realms.
“He highlighted the uniqueness of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, coinciding with the completion of his first year serving as the 23rd Chief of Army Staff. Reflecting on the past year, Lagbaja expressed gratitude for life and the restored peace in previously troubled regions of the country.
“He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the military, both in terms of human resources and logistics, in the continuous battle against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, secessionist movements, and other criminal activities.”
Onyema emphasized that the Army Chief praised the troops for emerging victorious in hazardous situations.
He noted, “Lagbaja recognized the unyielding dedication, exceptional courage, and patriotism exhibited by Nigerian Army troops, leading them to triumph in the face of imminent danger.
“He mentioned that many soldiers bear physical battle scars and wounds as symbols of their courage and valor, while others carry with them the memories and tales of their sacrifices for the nation.”
He also conveyed the COAS’s call for collective understanding and support for the government’s endeavors to enact vital reforms aimed at reinstating economic stability.
Onyema further relayed Lagbaja’s appeal to all Nigerian Army personnel and their families to reinvigorate their dedication to selflessness and love for their country’s progress and advancement.
“He reaffirmed his commitment to providing forward-thinking and comprehensive leadership essential for efficient training, improved living standards, and operational efficiency.
“The COAS expressed deep gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support and guidance.
“He commended Nigerians and the global community for their continuous support and trust in the Nigerian Army, expressing optimism for sustained collaboration to address security issues and establish a conducive environment for economic growth and other democratic benefits,” the statement concluded.