COAS Hosts Christmas Luncheon For Frontline Troops In Borno, Praises Soldiers’ Sacrifice

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has honoured frontline troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) with a special Christmas luncheon in Maiduguri, Borno State, commending their courage, resilience, and sacrifice in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.

This was made known in a press release signed by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.

The event, held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the 212 Battalion Parade Ground, Maimalari Military Cantonment, was organised by Headquarters 7 Division in conjunction with the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), OPHK. It brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and guests in an atmosphere of unity and festive cheer.

Represented by the Commander, Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, the Army Chief extended warm Christmas greetings to the troops, describing the season as one that “symbolises love, sacrifice, hope and renewal.”

“Christmas is a period to reflect on our shared humanity, collective responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the nation,” he said.

General Shaibu lauded the troops’ steadfastness, noting that while many Nigerians celebrated the festive season with family, the soldiers continued to stand “as an unbreakable wall of hope for the nation.”

“Your courage, professionalism, and selfless service in Operation HADIN KAI have contributed significantly to the stabilisation of Borno State and the wider North East region,” he added.

The COAS urged personnel to remain vigilant and disciplined, warning that “criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods to undermine peace and security.” He stressed the importance of collaboration with sister agencies and local communities to sustain peace, noting that “the trust of the people is essential for achieving enduring stability.”

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troop welfare, saying that “the well-being of personnel remains a top priority,” with ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, healthcare delivery, and support for military families.

General Shaibu also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his “steadfast support to military operations nationwide,” and wished wounded personnel a speedy recovery.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to national security, he pledged that the Armed Forces would continue to act “boldly, decisively, and with unwavering commitment to duty,” in defending democracy and safeguarding the nation.

“The Army leadership appreciates your sacrifices and remains committed to professionalism, combat readiness, and personnel welfare, in line with the COAS’ ‘Soldiers First’ philosophy,” he emphasised.

In his welcome remarks, the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, thanked the COAS and dignitaries for honouring the troops, describing the event as a morale booster. He highlighted major operational successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, recovery of weapons, and the return of internally displaced persons to their communities.

“These achievements are clear indicators of the progress made under the COAS’ leadership,” Abubakar said, acknowledging the continued support of the Borno State Government and local communities.

Representing the Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani, commended the gallant troops for their “unparalleled patriotism and dedication” in ensuring peace and stability across the state.

“The commitment of our Armed Forces is second to none,” Governor Zulum said, pledging continued support to security operations and families of fallen heroes. He also lauded President Tinubu and the COAS for their leadership in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.

In a vote of thanks, the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Essen Efanga, expressed appreciation to all who supported the event, including the Presidency, Borno State Government, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and the media.

The celebration featured cultural performances, humorous interludes, and morale-boosting activities. The highlight was the symbolic serving of Christmas meals to frontline and wounded troops by senior officers—a gesture reinforcing the bond between leadership and the rank and file.

The event concluded with a group photograph and renewed calls for unity, professionalism, and vigilance as troops were urged to celebrate responsibly while maintaining operational alertness.