The nation is firmly behind you to defeat adversaries, restore peace — Gen Lagbaja assures troops

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has assured the frontline troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Hadarin Daji, that the entire nation is firmly behind their efforts to defeat adversaries and restore peace.

Lagbaja stated this during a heartwarming Christmas luncheon held at Giginya Barracks in Sokoto.

Gen Lagbaja, commending the troops for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in tackling security challenges, pledged to empower them with enhanced combat enablers and logistics to bolster operational capacity.

Speaking at the event, Major General Godwin Mutkut, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, expressed gratitude for the COAS’s initiatives, including the construction and renovation of vital structures.

These included improved living accommodations, a 7.5 MVA Transformer for stable electricity, road tarriings within the Barracks, an Obstacle Course in units, the establishment of a Battalion at Ilela, and other Forward Operating Bases, along with the provision of necessary platforms to elevate operational effectiveness.

In a symbolic gesture, Gen Lagbaja inaugurated a multipurpose hall at Giginya Barracks, further underlining the commitment to infrastructure development.

The luncheon also featured the COAS personally serving food to wounded in action soldiers, highlighting a compassionate touch.

Following the luncheon, Gen Lagbaja paid a courtesy visit to Sokoto State Governor Dr. Hammad Aliyu at the Government House.

The COAS emphasized his presence in the state as a motivation for troops engaged in the fight against terrorists and bandits.

He expressed gratitude for the State Government’s support in the ongoing efforts.

Governor Hammad Aliyu, acknowledging the significance of the COAS spending time with troops during the Christmas celebration, emphasized its positive impact on troop morale.

He recounted the recent success of the gallant troops in rescuing over 60 individuals from a terrorists’ enclave and urged them to remain steadfast in securing the state and the nation.

In a festive atmosphere, cultural troupes added to the event’s highlights, showcasing the rich diversity of Nigeria’s heritage.

The luncheon not only served as a moment of appreciation but also as a symbol of unity and resilience in the collective pursuit of peace and socio-economic development in the North West region and the nation at large.