CHRISTMAS: CDS, COAS Fete Frontline Troops At Special Luncheon In Sokoto
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 26 December 2025, hosted frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to a special Christmas luncheon at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State.
The visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, was aimed at boosting troop morale, appreciating their sacrifices and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing military operations across the North West.
Addressing officers and soldiers, General Oluyede conveyed warm Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline and unwavering commitment to duty, especially as many Nigerians celebrated the festive season with their families.
“While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said.
He praised the operational successes recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the troops’ efforts have contributed significantly to restoring public confidence and stabilising the North West geopolitical zone and neighbouring states. He urged sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as continuous engagement with local communities to consolidate peace.
General Oluyede reassured the troops that their welfare remains a top priority, stressing his commitment to improved living and working conditions, enhanced healthcare delivery and continued support for families of personnel. He also warned that criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods, urging troops to remain vigilant, disciplined and compliant with rules of engagement and human rights standards.
The CDS further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to military operations nationwide, assuring Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ continued resolve to combat terrorism and other forms of criminality.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing tradition of recognising the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres.
“It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment to celebrate Christmas with you, our gallant troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff. While we make merry here, similar luncheons are ongoing across other operational theatres,” the COAS said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the Christmas season offers an opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving and remembrance of fallen heroes whose sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer. He assured troops that the Nigerian Army remains committed to honouring its fallen personnel by supporting their families and upholding their legacy.
Reiterating his Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, the COAS emphasised personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and operational readiness. He urged troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct.
Both Service Chiefs reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2026.
