COAS Urges Unity, Discipline, Sacrifice During Eid Luncheon

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has urged troops to uphold unity, discipline, and sacrifice as Nigeria continues to confront persistent security challenges.

Speaking at an Eid-el-Fitr Sallah luncheon on Sunday at Dan-Ali, Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina, organized for frontline troops within the 8 Division’s area, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu, represented by Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, Commander of the Infantry Corps and Centre, highlighted the spiritual and moral significance of the celebration.

He noted that Ramadan’s observance reflects devotion, discipline, sacrifice, and spiritual reflection—virtues that closely align with the military’s core values, reinforcing commitment, integrity, and service among officers and soldiers.

“This year’s observance is unique as Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, allowing Muslim and Christian personnel to reflect spiritually at the same time,” he said. The alignment underscores unity and shared values within the Nigerian Army.

“Although forms of worship differ, the essence remains sacrifice, humility, self-restraint, compassion, and renewal,” he added, stressing that mutual respect among personnel strengthens cohesion and operational effectiveness.

Lt.-Gen. Shaibu also paid tribute to fallen heroes, noting their courage and patriotism continue to inspire serving troops. He commended deployed personnel for their resilience, particularly those marking the festive season away from their families.

He assured troops of continued efforts to improve welfare, living conditions, professional development, and support systems for soldiers and their families. The COAS also acknowledged other security and intelligence agencies, emphasizing that collaboration is essential in addressing national security challenges. He appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and strategic leadership as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Maj.-Gen. Paul Koughna, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North-West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, praised the state government’s support and described the luncheon as timely and aligned with directives to boost troop morale. He commended the troops’ sacrifices against criminal elements, urging steadfastness, discipline, and commitment in ongoing operations.

Dr. Muazu Danmusa, representing Katsina State governor Alhaji Dikko Radda, lauded troops’ gallantry in tackling crime and restoring peace across the state. He assured continued government support, particularly in welfare and logistics, and pledged sustained collaboration against banditry, urging troops to remain focused, courageous, and resolute in their duties.