By Augustine Ehikioya
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare and morale of its frontline troops, as he hosted a Special Eid-el-Fitr Sallah Luncheon for troops operating in 8 Division Area of Responsibility under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
He spoke during the event that was held on Sunday, 22 March 2026.
The event, held at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Dan-Ali in Dan Musa Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, brought together senior military officers, government representatives, troops as well as the local populace in a show of solidarity, appreciation and renewed commitment to national peace and security.
Addressing the gathering on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Godwin Mutkut, highlighted the COAS “Soldier-First Concept” as the guiding principle behind the luncheon.
He emphasised that the event was designed to motivate troops, boost morale and recognise their tireless service in defending the nation.
In a statement by Captain Abayomi Adisa, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), the COAS also reminded the soldiers of the COAS command philosophy which is “To advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat ready and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment”.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Umaru Radda,, who was represented by the Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasiru Muazu Dan Musa, commended the Nigerian Army for its resilience and dedication in maintaining peace and security across the state and the North-West region.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by troops in the frontlines and praised their courage, discipline and sacrifices in the pursuit of national stability.
The Governor further assured the troops of the State Government’s continued support, including collaboration with security agencies to provide the necessary resources and infrastructure for effective operations.
The luncheon also served as a moment of reflection and tribute to fallen heroes, including the late Captain Paul Hassan and three soldiers who recently paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
Their sacrifices were acknowledged as a solemn reminder of the dedication required to uphold peace and security.
The highpoint of the event was the symbolic serving of meals to troops by the dignitaries.
The event climaxed with the presentation of souvenirs to invited guests by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Major General Paul Koughna, as a token of appreciation for their support and engagement with the troops.
Also present at the event were the Commander 17 Brigade, Brigadier General Ishaya Ibrahim, Chairman of Dan Musa LGA, the District Heads of Dan Musa and Dan Ali, Commanding Officers, as well as representatives of sister security agencies, alongside other distinguished guests.
“The Special Eid-el-Fitr Luncheon underscores the Army’s focus on leadership engagement, frontline welfare, and the sustained pursuit of peace and security in Katsina State and beyond,” the statement stated.
