COAS Urges Troops to Uphold Core Values at Easter Luncheon in Jos
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on Nigerian Army personnel to remain guided by the institution’s core values of honour, responsibility, and respect for the rule of law in the discharge of their duties.
The COAS made the call during a special Easter luncheon held on Saturday for troops of Operation Safe Haven and the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jos, Plateau State. He was represented at the event by the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut.
In a statement delivered at the Headquarters of Operation Safe Haven, the Army Chief emphasized the importance of discipline, resilience, and professionalism, urging troops to remain vigilant across all operational theatres in the country.
He extended Easter greetings to Christian officers, soldiers, and their families, describing the season as a period of reflection, sacrifice, hope, and spiritual renewal. He noted that the 2026 Easter celebration was unique as it coincided with the Ramadan fasting period, highlighting the unity among personnel of different faiths within the Nigerian Army.
“This uncommon convergence underscores the unity that binds us as an army driven by a shared purpose,” he said.
The COAS commended troops for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, peace, and stability, noting that their dedication continues to inspire confidence among citizens.
He also paid tribute to personnel deployed in various operational theatres, many of whom are observing the festive period away from their families, as well as those who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
Reaffirming his leadership commitment, the Army Chief assured officers and soldiers that their welfare remains a top priority, including improving living conditions, enhancing professional development, and strengthening support systems for families of serving and fallen personnel.
He further stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration, acknowledging the contributions of other security and intelligence agencies in sustaining operational success and national stability.
The COAS expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and strategic leadership of the armed forces, noting that recent welfare initiatives have boosted morale and operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, commended troops for their professionalism and restraint in handling recent security challenges in Plateau State.
Oyinlola said the Easter season serves as a reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and triumph over adversity, urging personnel to remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities.
He praised the conduct of troops during recent developments in Jos metropolis, noting that their discipline and measured response helped prevent escalation of tensions and strengthened public trust.
The GOC emphasized the need for continuous alertness and intelligence-driven operations, urging soldiers to maintain high standards of professionalism in all engagements while protecting innocent lives and respecting constituted authority.
He also acknowledged the support of sister security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and the Plateau State Government, describing their cooperation as vital to sustaining peace in the region.
The event concluded with renewed calls for unity, dedication, and commitment among troops to confront emerging security challenges and ensure lasting peace and stability across Nigeria.
