Nigerian Army Chief Reaffirms Commitment to Soldiers’ Wellbeing During Sallah Luncheon

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has hosted a special Sallah luncheon with troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in the field, reaffirming that personnel welfare remains his top priority.

The event was recently held at Government Secondary School Awe and brought together troops from Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States in a display of unity and shared purpose. The Emir of Awe, HRH Alhaji Dr Isah Abubakar Umar II, led other notable personalities from the local government area to honour the troops at the occasion.
Represented by the Commander, 4 Special Forces Command, Major General OA Awolo, the COAS stated that the welfare of officers and soldiers continues to be a key pillar of his leadership and command philosophy, as OPWS troops marked the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
He congratulated Muslim personnel and their families on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a period of sacrifice, discipline, and spiritual renewal—qualities closely aligned with military values.
The COAS also noted the rare coincidence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season this year, saying the overlap reflects the unity and mutual respect that characterise the Nigerian Army.
Lieutenant General Shaibu paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation and urged troops to remain resolute in their duties.
He further emphasised that the strength of the Army lies not only in its operational capabilities but also in the morale and wellbeing of its personnel. He pledged sustained efforts to improve living conditions, enhance professional development, and strengthen support systems for troops and their families.
The Army Chief also commended the cooperation among sister services and other security agencies, stressing that synergy is vital for sustaining operational success. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support and strategic leadership.
In his remarks, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, described the celebration as an opportunity to appreciate and motivate troops for their recent operational achievements.
Gara highlighted the rescue of kidnapped victims and the neutralisation of criminal elements as clear indications of the task force’s commitment to restoring peace and stability.
Similarly, the Commander Sector 2 OPWS, Brigadier General DC Nwakonobi, said the event had boosted the morale of troops and strengthened their sense of belonging, assuring continued vigilance and dedication in tackling security challenges.
A statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, and made available to journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday, noted that the celebration featured cultural performances by the Jukun Cultural Dance Group, talent displays, presentation of souvenirs, refreshments, and a group photograph.