Army Chief Celebrates Christmas With Frontline Troops In Jos

JOS, NIGERIA – In a show of appreciation for their service, the Nigerian Army Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, hosted a Christmas luncheon for frontline troops of the 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN.

Cutting the cake

The event, held at the Headquarters Operation SAFE HAVEN in Jos, was represented by the Commander Armoured Corps, Major General MS Ahmed.

General Ahmed conveyed the COAS’s festive greetings to the officers soldiers, and their families.

He expressed profound gratitude for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to tackling the nation’s security challenges.

The COAS emphasised the importance of maintaining focus, discipline, and loyalty to constituted authority while stressing the need for continued collaboration within a joint and multi-agency environment to fulfil constitutional responsibilities.

General Oluyede, in his message delivered by General Ahmed, extended his thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and guidance.

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, protecting national interests, and assisting civil authorities across various operations.

The General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General AE Abubakar, welcomed the troops and lauded their operational achievements throughout the year. H

He urged them to remain vigilant and dedicated in the face of ongoing challenges within the Joint Operations Area. Major General Abubakar also emphasized the importance of discipline, loyalty, and professionalism, thanking the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and the COAS for their leadership and strategic guidance that has contributed to the division’s successes.

The well-attended event included representatives from various security agencies, serving and retired senior military officers, government officials, and business leaders. Cultural performances by the Irigwe cultural troupe and the National Youth Service Corps cultural troupe added to the festive atmosphere. The highlight of the occasion was the symbolic serving of troops by the COAS representative, the cutting of a Christmas cake, musical performances, souvenir presentations, and a group photograph.