The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has once again traveled to Borno State to join troops engaged in the ongoing counterterrorism operations for the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
Oluyede arrived in Maiduguri, the state capital, early Saturday morning, accompanied by his Principal Staff Officers and other senior army commanders. This visit follows his recent stay in Makurdi, Benue State, where he relocated earlier in the week due to violent clashes involving herders.
During his time in Borno, the army chief is scheduled to participate in a special gathering organized for the troops stationed on the frontline. This event aims to honor the soldiers during the Sallah festivities and provide a chance to interact with them about their welfare and operational conditions.
In addition to celebrating with the soldiers, General Oluyede plans to visit wounded servicemen admitted to various medical centers across the northeastern region. The purpose is to check on their recovery and offer encouragement to remain strong amid the challenges they face.
The army chief is also expected to receive detailed briefings from commanders overseeing counterterrorism efforts in the area. These briefings will update him on the current state of operations and allow him to review progress.
Afterward, he will proceed to visit military units deployed in areas recently affected by terrorist attacks but now reclaimed by Nigerian forces.
A senior officer, who preferred not to be named, explained that the visit is meant to uplift the morale of troops risking their lives to protect Nigeria’s borders. It is also intended to assure them of ongoing support from the Nigerian Army, the federal government, and the public.
In a goodwill message released to mark the Eid celebration, General Oluyede praised the courage and dedication of officers, soldiers, and their families. He said, “Your unwavering commitment, selfless devotion, and unflinching resilience in defence of our fatherland are deeply appreciated.”
The COAS noted that Eid-el-Kabir represents sacrifice, a value reflected daily by the soldiers serving in different operations. He encouraged the troops to stay strong and take inspiration from the spiritual meaning of the festival.
Reflecting on the Nigerian Army’s efforts over the past year, Oluyede acknowledged that peace is gradually returning to many troubled areas. He attributed this progress to the bravery and professionalism of the men and women in uniform.
“Many of our gallant warriors bear the marks of battle, some carry visible scars, others live with the memories and some have paid the ultimate price in service to our great nation. We honour their legacies and stand with their families during this festive period. Their heroism remains etched in our national memory.”
The statement, issued by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, acting director of army public relations, further noted that General Oluyede reaffirmed the army’s determination to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty and tackle new security threats.
He urged soldiers to maintain discipline, unity, and focus as they carry out their duties.
Finally, the COAS thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support and leadership in enhancing national security. He called on all military personnel and their families to observe the Eid season with gratitude and renewed commitment to their service.
