The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, joined troops on Monday to celebrate Christmas in Sokoto, saying that the military made sacrifices for the love of the nation and humanity.

Mr Lagbaja urged personnel to remain steadfast in their mandates of ensuring people’s safety and safeguarding the territorial integrity of the country.

He said the Nigerian Army recorded successes in their operations and commended gallant troops for their efforts, reassuring that next year more equipment would be provided for increased services.

According to him, success always came as a result of hard work along with accompanying challenges, stressing that with support from the executive and legislature, more achievements would be ensured.

He urged residents to assist formations with useful information on any suspicious movements, as security should be the collective responsibility of all citizens.

Mr Lagbaja said the celebration was aimed at reuniting with troops, including the injured, to rub minds and share the joys of the festive period as part of motivational physical strategies to boost troop’s morale.

“For our warriors on the frontlines and their families back in our rear units, I must say I quite understand what you feel this season because I have served in many of our theatres of operations and I have been away from my family and loved ones.

“In times like this, I understand the loneliness our military families endure and the homesickness our troops in the frontlines battle,” Mr Lagbaja said.

He added that challenges confronting military operations are surmountable and called for more dedication and selfless services as the leadership are always ready to support them.

In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, thanked the COAS for his inspirational support that would surely motivate personnel.

Mr Mutkut said the COAS ensured the rehabilitation and construction of befitting accommodations for every cadre, roads and other structures in the barracks, along with logistic support in the country.

He expressed gratitude for the bravery, service and dedication of men who served as an example to many out of uniform and also thanked governments and people.

” The Christmas season is unique in many ways because of what it symbolises; it happened to coincide with my birthday and the physical presence of COAS.

“Christmas is about love, hope, giving and sharing, and taking cognisance of the fact that the gift of Christ to the world is born out of God’s love for humanity,” he added.

The army chief earlier inaugurated an indoor sporting hall constructed by the Nigerian Army in Giginya Barracks and the festivity featured songs, traditional dances and military celebrations.

(NAN)