Army chief, Yahaya sends Christmas message to troops in frontline

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has re-emphasized the commitment of the military towards maintaining and protecting the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

He said this in a message to the troops during a special Christmas luncheon at the Northeast Joint Task Force Sector Two Operation Hadin-Kai, Damaturu, Yobe State.

Yahaya, represented by the Commander Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Maj. Gen. Sani Idris, while paying tribute to officers and soldiers fighting battles in many parts of the country, assured them that the Nigerian Army under his watch is committed to their welfare.

He urged them to remain professional and loyal to the civil authorities as well as support the COVID-19 containment measures to curtail the spread of the virus among their families and colleagues.

“I, therefore, charge you all to continue to remain focused, disciplined and loyal to constituted authority while ensuring that, we professionally defeat all adversaries. Furthermore, I urge you to maintain the spirit of patriotism and continue to do your best in the discharge of your assigned duties and responsibilities”, he said.

Sector 2 Commander, Northeast Joint Taskforce Force Operation Hadin Kai, Brigadier General Nura Adamu, said the traditional Christmas luncheon was organised to boost the morale of the officers and soldiers towards consolidating successes recorded in the fight against insurgency.

“This event was conceived to create an atmosphere where officers and men will meet together outside the trenches due to our current operations to wine, dine and make merry on the spirit of the season”, Brig. Gen. Adamu said.

While acknowledging the contributions of partners in the fight against insurgents, he urged the media to ensure balanced reportage.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of souvenirs to some deserving soldiers, individuals and organizations for their support to the Nigerian Army.