Sallah Luncheon: COAS Felicitates With Troops and Families, Commends Their Commitment and Sacrifices

Sallah Luncheon: COAS Felicitates With Troops and Families, Commends Their Commitment and Sacrifices

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has commended the troops of 81 Division, Nigerian Army (NA) for their unwavering dedication, sacrifices, and resilience in service to the nation. Represented by the Corps Commander Education, Major General AP Oguntola, the COAS made the commendation on 7 June 2025 during a special Eid-El-Kabir luncheon held in honour of the troops at 81 Division Garrison Parade Ground, Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Lagos.

The COAS conveyed his appreciation to the troops and their families, acknowledging their courage and selflessness in safeguarding Nigeria’s unity, peace, and stability. He recognised the profound sacrifices of our fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price, praying for the repose of their souls while reaffirming the NA’s commitment to supporting their families and loved ones.

The COAS also applauded the progress made in ensuring peace and security across the nation, noting that the Eid-el-Kabir celebration,which is a period of sacrifice, provides an opportunity for the troops to redouble their individual and collective efforts. Furthermore, the COAS extended his profound gratitude to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support, focused leadership, and strategic guidance to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, lauded officers and soldiers for their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR). He urged troops to sustain the good efforts and continue working in synergy with other security agencies to ensure tranquillity and safety of the civil populace. He emphasised the importance of discipline, dedication, and integrity, urging troops to uphold the NA’s values and ethics and refrain from activities that could tarnish the reputation and image of the NA. He also called on commanders to remain vigilant, ensuring regular patrols and implementing necessary operational measures to secure the Division’s AOR.

The GOC further appreciated the COAS for his continuous guidance and unflinching support to the Division, which tremendously impacts the operational successes recorded.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Commanding Officer, 81 Division Garrison Administrative Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel MA Agbor, expressed his appreciation to the GOC 81 Division NA, describing him as the foundation and driving force behind the successful execution of all tasks in alignment with the COAS’s directives and command philosophy.

Lt Col Agbor further extended gratitude to formation and unit commanders, officers, Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs), Departmental Heads, and all soldiers present, including those incapacitated in the line of duty, recognising their selfless service to the nation.

Highlight of the event was the serving of lunch to wounded in action soldiers by the senior officers, presentation of souvenir and group photographs.

The luncheon was attended by commanders, Principal Staff Officers from 81 Division Headquarters, commanding officers, officers, and soldiers of the Division, which reinforces the NA’s commitment to camaraderie, welfare, and operational excellence.