Chief Of Army Staff Celebrates Eid-El-Kabir With Troops, Says Nigerian Army Will Remain Resolute in Defence of Nigeria’s Territorial Integrity
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, NAM, has said that Nigerian Army (NA) will remain resolute in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity against the nation’s adversaries. The Army Chief, made the declaration on 6 June, 2025 while celebrating Eid – El – Kabir festivals with troops of 2 Division NA at Major General JM Inienger Sports Complex, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment Ibadan.
Conveying the COAS’ goodwill message to troops, the Corps Commander, NA Ordinance Corps, Major General HT Wesley, who represented the COAS at the occasion, applauded NA troops for their priceless sacrifices, gallantry, and courageousness alongside their families. “Your unwavering commitment, sacrifice and resilience in the service of our beloved country are deeply appreciated and honoured during this season of reflection and gratitude”, he said. The COAS, further noted that Eid – El – Kabir, significantly highlights the essential virtues of sacrifice and selfless service to others; urging troops of 2 Division to renew their commitment in the fight against insecurity, and intensify efforts in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Speaking further, Lieutenant General Oluyede, confirmed that the festive period affords the army a time to access individual and collective efforts, while expressing deep gratitude to God Almighty for the gift of life as well as the relative peace which has been restored in many parts of Nigeria. He said the period also helps the army to renew its hopes for an even more secure and prosperous future. He expressed satisfaction to NA troops for their demonstration of unalloyed loyalty, uncommon courage and faith, which he said brought about significant victories in the face of grave danger. For families of soldiers who sustained several degrees of injuries in line of duty; and particularly those who paid the supreme price, the COAS said,…..”the selfless heroism of your loved ones will forever be etched in the hearts of Nigerians and humanity”.
He expressed gratitude to His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his unflinching support, focused leadership and strategic guidance. The COAS, also appreciated Nigerians for their unwavering belief and support to the NA, anticipating more formidable collaboration towards ending insecurity, and creating enabling environment for sustainable economic growth.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division NA, Major General Obinna Onubogu, appreciated the COAS for granting troops of 2 Division the opportunity to share Eid – El – Kabir meal with him; adding that his (COAS) presence at the event, underscores his unwavering commitment to the welfare and morale of NA personnel. “Your visionary leadership continues to inspire us, and your dedication to the well – being of troops, fortifies our resolve to protect our nation”, the GOC added. Rather than consider the Sallah lunch just a meal, the GOC said it was an opportunity to strengthen bonds, share comradeship, and reflect on the significance of Eid – El – Kabir, which he referred to as time for troops to make more sacrifices, strengthen faith, and unite stronger for future successes.
General Onubogu, expressed gratitude to soldiers who serve the nation away from their homes, and on the frontlines; appreciating their families who stood for them through the vast difficulties of staying true and faithful in the defence of Nigeria. He further referred to troops as the bedrock of Nigeria’s safety, and the foundation that continually reassures and sustains freedom for all. He enjoined troops of 2 Division NA, to remain focused and committed to carrying out to the latter, NA’s constitutional mandates, while wishing for greater successes in all endeavours.
The representative of the COAS, accompanied by the GOC, Principal Staff Officers of 2 Division, as well as other senior officers, served troops to sumptuous meals of their choices. Presentation of souvenirs and group photograph, climaxed the event.
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