The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, on Tuesday reunited with wounded soldiers in Sokoto and motivated troops for more engagement as part of Christmas celebrations.

Mr Musa called on Nigerians to unite against the nation’s adversaries in support of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the spirit of Christmas and New Year celebrations.

He was in Sokoto to interact and associate with wounded personnel and others discharging their duties at different operational fields in the area.

He said the period was a festive and joyous time and the Nigerian Army deemed it fit to use the period in celebration with all cadre of personnel as well as pray for those that made supreme sacrifices.

Mr Musa urged wounded soldiers to consider the situation as destiny and assured that the Nigerian Army was with them and continued to support them to recover and return to service.

He also expressed gratitude to the armed forces and Nigerians for their commitment, adding that the sacrifices of all uniformed heroes defending the nation should be acknowledged.

He said, “I encourage you to face the challenges with unity and courage, your bravery will not go unnoticed, and we commit to continuous support. May the festive spirit bind us as one and the warmth of shared destiny resonate beyond this season.”

He appealed to Nigerians to unite against common enemies, support the motivated armed forces’ steadfastness in defending the nation’s integrity.

He added that safeguarding people’s lives and property should be a collective responsibility as the soldiers might not be present at all places but people were there.

He reiterated that security agencies had made achievements on tracking challenges in the year and hoped for more success the coming year. He further charged people on renewed hope and to stay vigilant and resolute in protecting the nation.

He added, “I am proud of our achievements and optimistic that the New Year holds even better promises for the security of our dear nation and the wellbeing of our citizenry. The synergy between agencies is intact and relates to ensure success at all times.’’

Mr Musa had earlier inaugurated projects in his alma mater, Federal Government College, Sokoto and a primary school which he attended as giving back to society.

The CDS said he was born and raised in Sokoto and had a good living, stressing that the visit was a homecoming, assuring of more proactive support to Sokoto and Nigeria at large.

The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division of the Nigerian Army Sokoto, Maj. Gen. Godwin Mutkut, thanked the CDS for his efforts and assured him to live up to the expectations of the people.

The event witnessed drama, songs and cultural display from different groups in the Giginya Barrack Sokoto.

(NAN)