●Observes Christmas with troops in Sokoto
In a demonstration of unwavering commitment to the ongoing battle against the nation’s adversaries, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has assured troops of the Nigerian Army that the entire nation stands firmly behind them.
The pledge was made during a Christmas Luncheon held at Giginya Barracks, Sokoto, where Gen Lagbaja addressed frontline troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Hadarin Daji.
According to Director Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, General Lagbaja, commending the troops for their steadfast dedication and sacrifices in addressing security challenges, assured them of continued support.
He emphasized the provision of essential combat enablers and logistical support to enhance their operational capacity effectively.
Speaking at the Christmas Luncheon, Major General Godwin Mutkut, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, expressed gratitude to the COAS for various infrastructural developments within the Division.
These developments included upgraded living accommodations, a 7.5 MVA Transformer for stable electricity supply, road tarring within the Barracks, the construction of an Obstacle Course in units, the establishment of a Battalion at Ilela, and other Forward Operating Bases.
The COAS’s initiatives aimed to bolster operational effectiveness.
Following the luncheon, General Lagbaja paid a courtesy visit to Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Hammad Aliyu, at the Sokoto State Government House.

During the visit, the COAS disclosed that his presence in the state was to motivate and strengthen the resolve of troops in the ongoing fight against terrorists and bandits, with the goal of restoring peace and socio-economic development in the state and the North West region.
General Lagbaja expressed gratitude for the State Government’s support to the troops.
Governor Hammad Aliyu acknowledged the COAS’s commitment, highlighting the significance of sharing a Christmas meal with troops to boost their morale.
He noted that the luncheon followed closely after the successful rescue mission where gallant troops liberated over 60 individuals from a terrorists’ enclave.
Governor Aliyu urged the troops to remain resolute in securing the state and the nation at large.
Key moments of the event included the commissioning of a Multipurpose Hall in Giginya Barracks by the COAS, the serving of meals to wounded soldiers in action by General Lagbaja, and cultural performances by various troupes.
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