Army chief salutes frontline soldiers’ sacrifice at Christmas
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended Nigerian troops on the frontlines for their courage, discipline and selfless sacrifice in defending the nation.
In a Christmas message, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu expressed appreciation for the commitment of soldiers to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of citizens, noting that their dedication remains invaluable to national security.
He said the festive season offers an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s journey, marked by both challenges and achievements that have shaped the operations of the Nigerian Army. According to him, with divine guidance and the resilience of personnel, the Army has continued to display professionalism across all theatres of operation.
Shaibu paid special tribute to personnel deployed in operational areas who are unable to celebrate the season with their families due to the demands of duty, describing their service as a testament to patriotism and honour.
The Army Chief assured that under his leadership, efforts would be sustained to strengthen professionalism and combat readiness, with emphasis on sound administration, improved welfare, recognition of excellence, and an effective reward and sanction system.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices of military families, describing their support as a vital source of strength for officers and soldiers, while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to enhancing welfare programmes for them.
READ ALSO: Tinubu’s Directive in Action: Army chief moves to reinforce North-East operations
Shaibu further appreciated the support of sister services, security and intelligence agencies, ministries, departments, state governors, traditional rulers, host communities and Nigerians at large, noting that their cooperation remains critical to the Army’s constitutional responsibilities.
Urging personnel to embrace the spirit of the season, he called on them to show love, reflect on their collective journey and renew their commitment to unity, discipline and professionalism.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Army Chief encouraged officers and soldiers to approach the year with renewed optimism and determination, pledging intensified efforts to counter emerging threats, consolidate operational gains, improve counterinsurgency strategies, strengthen intelligence architecture and enhance troop morale and welfare.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while honouring fallen heroes whose sacrifices, he said, have made the country safer. He assured that their families would continue to be supported and remembered.
Shaibu also charged personnel to remain united as a disciplined force and to uphold the trust placed in them by the President and Commander-in-Chief, the government and the people of Nigeria.
He concluded by thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his consistent support, strategic leadership and confidence in the Nigerian Army.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
