The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has tasked troops of 81 Division Nigerian Army to rededicate themselves to the ideals of unity, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibility of defending the territorial integrity of the nation.
He gave the charge while addressing a cross-section of officers and soldiers of 81 Division Nigerian Army and Special Forces troops of Operation Restore Hope at the 243 Recce Battalion Parade Ground, Ibereko Barracks, Badagry, Lagos.
In his remarks delivered by his representative, the Corps Commander Ordnance (CCO), Major General AG Ibrahim, the COAS thanked God Almighty for His continued grace and protection over the nation and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Army.
He noted that the celebration of Christmas brings to mind the virtues of love, sacrifice, compassion, peace and unity, which are central to Christian doctrine and also resonate strongly with the ethos and core values of the Nigerian Army.
He described Christmas as a period of reflection, renewal of faith and thanksgiving, while commending troops deployed across various theatres of operation who are unable to celebrate the season with their families due to the exigencies of duty.
He recounts their sacrifices as worthy of national gratitude and urged officers and soldiers to remain steadfast in unity, discipline and professionalism.
He assured troops of improved administration with greater focus on personnel welfare, recognition of excellence, and an efficient reward and sanction system, in line with his Command Philosophy: “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.”
He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support, strategic leadership and commitment to the welfare of troops and their families.
He also commended the President for approving an increase in the Nigerian Army recruitment quota, noting that it will significantly enhance manpower and combat readiness.
In his welcome remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, commended officers and soldiers of the Division for their dedication in maintaining peace within the division’s area of responsibility, thereby enabling residents to go about their lawful activities unhindered.
He urged troops to sustain the momentum and continue effective collaboration with other security agencies. While appreciating the commitment and dedication of troops of 81 Division and Operation Restore Hope throughout 2025, the GOC encouraged them to strive for greater achievements in the coming year.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the Commanding Officer, 243 Recce Battalion, the Battalion Second-in-Command, Major M Okon, expressed deep appreciation to the COAS for his unwavering support, guidance and exemplary leadership.
He also thanked the GOC 81 Division for his consistent support and commitment to the successful execution of tasks in line with the COAS’ command philosophy.
He assured the COAS of the Battalion’s renewed commitment to improved performance in the year ahead.