The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, underscored the monumental sacrifices made in terms of both lives and resources by the Army throughout the past year in the relentless battle against terrorism and insurgency.
During his visit to Maiduguri, General Lagbaja not only commended the efforts of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) on the occasion of Eid-El-Kabir, but also urged them to maintain and build upon the progress achieved thus far in combating terrorism in the North East region.
In an address delivered in Maiduguri while celebrating Eid-El-Kabir with the frontline troops, General Lagbaja acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the soldiers, many of whom bear the physical and emotional scars of conflict. He praised their exceptional bravery in overcoming arduous challenges and consistently emerging triumphant.
The COAS expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his strategic counsel and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army, especially in providing essential resources that have contributed significantly to the success of ongoing military operations.
General Lagbaja also extended appreciation to the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and other Service Chiefs for their collaborative efforts in safeguarding the nation against its adversaries.
In addition to these acknowledgements, the COAS inaugurated several projects at Maimalari Cantonment, including the Headquarters of the 47 Engineers Brigade, a newly constructed road named Major General YM Abubakar Drive, and a rehabilitated connecting road, in a bid to enhance operational capabilities and infrastructure within the military base.
As the Theatre Commander, JTF NE OPHK, Major General Waidi Shaibu, lauded the COAS for his one-year tenure marked by remarkable achievements since assuming leadership on June 23, 2023, describing it as a highly productive period.
Furthermore, the Theatre Commander highlighted the recovery of various military assets, such as vehicles and equipment damaged by insurgent activities, which were subsequently repaired by the Theatre Main Repair Group. This approach aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a proficient, well-equipped, and motivated force to fulfill its constitutional duties within a unified operational framework.
The event showcased the repaired assets retrieved from insurgents to discourage further loss of military equipment, emphasizing the operational effectiveness and resilience of troops. The rescued hostages, surrendered individuals, neutralized combatants, and recovered weaponry symbolize the sacrifices and dedication of the troops across the Theatre in their ongoing efforts against terrorism and insurgency.
