COAS Celebrates Eid-el-Fitr with Frontline Troops in Plateau State
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, has celebrated Eid-el-Fitr with frontline troops of 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN in Plateau State. The event, held on March 31, 2025, at the Headquarters of Operation SAFE HAVEN in Jos, brought together military personnel, dignitaries, and retired senior officers.
Represented by the Commander Armour Corps, Major General OC Ajunwa, the COAS conveyed a goodwill message to the Nigerian Army, emphasizing the importance of unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. He highlighted that this year’s Ramadan, coinciding with the Christian Lenten season, served as a reminder of the shared values of discipline, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Commitment to National Security
General Oluyede commended the troops for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation, despite the risks involved in their operations. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the operational capacity, welfare, and combat readiness of the Nigerian Army to effectively address security challenges. He further underscored the need for discipline, professionalism, and inter-agency collaboration in tackling security threats.
“As we celebrate, we must remain mindful of our shared duty to uphold the peace, unity, and sovereignty of our beloved country,” the COAS stated, adding that their efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic priorities on national security and sustainable development.
GOC Commends Troops’ Dedication
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, extended congratulations to the Muslim faithful and their families. He emphasized the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time for unity, forgiveness, and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
General Oyinlola praised the troops for their unwavering dedication to duty and acknowledged their resilience in maintaining security across the region. He also commended their families for their support and sacrifices, recognizing their integral role in the military’s success.
“Our work goes beyond military strategies; it involves fostering trust with the communities we serve and ensuring our actions are guided by moral and ethical principles,” he noted.
He urged the troops to uphold values of honesty, fairness, and empathy in their engagements with civilians while maintaining discipline and professionalism in their operations.
Honoring Fallen Heroes
During the event, special tributes were paid to fallen soldiers who had made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. The GOC encouraged troops to honor their legacy by remaining vigilant and committed to their responsibilities.
He reiterated the commitment of 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN to ensuring peace and security for all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
Festivities and Celebrations
The Eid-el-Fitr celebration featured cultural performances, including a dance display by the Irigwe New Wave dance group. Troops were also treated to a special luncheon, with senior officers, including the COAS’s representative and the GOC, personally serving meals. Other highlights included a session of riddles and jokes, souvenir presentations, and interactive engagements to boost morale among the personnel.
The event reinforced the Nigerian Army’s commitment to fostering camaraderie, strengthening morale, and ensuring the well-being of its personnel while upholding national security and stability.
