In a statement on Friday, Buratai expressed joy over the
successes recorded by the military in the renewed onslaught to rout out
elements of the Boko Haram insurgents in northern Borno and Lake Chad
region.

Buratia noted that the troops displayed high
sense of patriotism and gallantry in the defeat of the insurgents and
secure the communities.

He said: “I am very delighted to receive the
good news of your triumphant entry, clearing of the strategic town of
Baga and neutralizing the Boko Haram terrorists that tested our might
some days back.

“Your efforts; open display of
gallantry and patriotism that brought about this unprecedented feat,
gladdened my heart, Nigerians and indeed peace loving people around the
world. I am very proud of you all.

“You should continue to be motivated,
maintain the momentum and the fight against the criminal terrorists
until you clear them out anywhere they are hibernating on our territory.
Well done our gallant troops sustain the offensive and be assure of our
total support”.

Buratai
lauded the Theatre Commander, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Maj. – Gen. Benson
Akinroluyo, Commander of the newly created Nigerian Army Special Forces
Command (NASFC), Maj. Gen. MG Alli, and the Commander Sector 3
Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Maj.-Gen. OT Akinjobi.

Others were the Commander, 707 Special Forces
Brigade, Brig.- Gen. DO Donibo; Commander of Integrated Fire Support
Centre, Brig. Gen. BR Sinjen, the NASFC’s Chief of Staff, Brig.-Gen. MLD
Saraso, Commander of the NASFC Military Intelligence Brigade, Col. AA
Idris, and Col. C Ochimana, the Commander of Integrated Logistic.

Also on the list were the Commander of the
Armed Forces Special Forces, Cdr. GB Osuobeni; the Commanding Officer
123 Battalion, Maj. LA Balogun, and the Commanding Officer of Army
Headquarters Strike Group, Maj. MT Nasiru.

Buratai further commended troops and
members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) for their support in the
fight and liberation of areas infested by the Boko Haram terrorists.

He tasked the troops to consolidate on the
gains and intensify pursuit of the terrorists to end insurgency and
restore lasting peace in the region.

The army chief reiterated the commitments of
the military authorities to provide the necessary support to ensure the
success of the assigned task, adding that he had directed for additional
replenishment and special welfare packages for troops and commanders.

“I want you to invoke the spirit of
courage and bravery that the Nigerian military is noted for, the world
over. Victory is very near. Definitely, you are the ones that will make
it nearer and sweeter,” he added.

While commending President Muhammadu Buhari
over his support to the military, Buratai prayed for repose of the souls
of departed heroes, and wished the wounded soldiers quick recovery.