From Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
The Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has expressed optimism that the coming year, 2024 and beyond hold lots of prospects for Nigeria and Nigerians.
Lagbaja, who spoke after commissioning a multi purpose hall built in his honour at the 8 Division, Nigeria Army Barracks, Sokoto on Monday 25December, 2023, also had Christmas lunch with officers and men of the barracks where he personally served some soldiers incapacitated in diverse operations in defence of the country.
According to the COAS, the federal government is committed to a better Nigeria for all. He added thatme “judging by the policies and unfolding programs of the federal government, the year ahead holds a lot of prospects for Nigeria and the military in particular””,.
While noting the gallantry of the Nigerian troops and their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja commended their courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
He stressed that if not for the commitment to a secure Nigeria, most of their colleagues would have loved to come and celebrate the festive period with their families but they were duty bound to serve.
“”They have the responsibility to stand on guard while their families rejoice and celebrate together sometimes not knowing how similar celebrations are going on in the barracks. To our gallant warriors, I say thank you for your sacrifice and dedication to duty”, the COAS stated.
Lagbaja disclosed that the military was expecting to take delivery of more helicopters and other combat enablers that will see a better security environment across the country.
He submitted that the wellbeing of officers and men of the Nigeria Army was of utmost importance to him adding that he would continue to work tirelessly to provide them with the necessary resources and support to carry on their duties and to live meaningfully in abundance and contentment.
The COAS stated: “‘I am not oblivious that we are constantly confronted by some challenges as we strive to fulfill our constitutional obligations. But they are by no means insurmountable. I have no doubt that with the support of the executive and legislative arms of government, the combat enablers will further boost the physical, moral and conceptual components of our fighting paths in collaboration with sister security agencies with the goals of creating and maintaining a peaceful, safe and secure environment for economic activities to thrive”.
Continuing, he said, “As the Chief of Army Staff, I desire to return your husbands and loved ones back home safely. To this end, we will look forward to creating a more stable condition that will allow for drawdown in strength of troops deployed in all our forward operating bases.
”Another deployment across the country was our endeavor to help build capacity in sister security agencies to take charge of our internal security effectively. Remember, you’re not alone in the fight against the enemy of this nation. The entire nation stands with you, supporting you in every step to defeat our adversary and have a peaceful Nigeria,” the COAS enthused.
In his vote of thanks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Nigeria Army, Sokoto and Commander, North West Joint Operation Hadarin Daji, Major General Micheal Muktuk, expressed gratitude to the Almighty God and the troops of the division for their dedication to a peaceful country.
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