Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Waidi Shaibu has commended troops of Joint Task Force-Operation Enduring Peace (JTF-OPEP) for their unwavering commitment and resilience in the ongoing fight against insecurity in Plateau State.

“We want to commend our troops for the commitment and resilience towards ensuring a peaceful society,” Mr Shuaibu said during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon with troops of Operation Enduring Peace on Friday in Jos, the state capital.

Mr Shuaibu, represented by the chief of administration, Nigerian Army, said the luncheon was organised to celebrate troops for their commitment and sacrifices towards a peaceful society.

“These are also the moral foundations of military service: the discipline required to deny oneself comfort, the resilience to endure hardship, and commitment to spiritual and moral renewal.

“These are the qualities that shape not only the faithful but also the professional soldier. We also remember with pride and gratitude our troops currently deployed across various theatres of operation.

“As we celebrate with our families and loved ones, many of our comrades remain resilient and unwavering in their commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and protecting the lives of our citizens.

“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments far from the comfort of their homes, yet are steadfast in loyalty and professionalism. Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage are highly commendable,” he said.

The COAS further promised improved welfare for troops and their families, insisting that welfare for troops goes beyond equipment.

Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Folunsho Oyinlola, the commander of the JTF-OPEP, thanked the COAS for putting together the luncheon for the troops.

Mr Oyinlola, who regretted the recent incidents that led to the loss of some officers and men of the operation, however, said it would not deter the men from the ongoing fight against insecurity.

He called on the residents of Plateau and environs to support the military and other security agencies in tackling security challenges in the state.

(NAN)