From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has celebrated frontline troops of the 3 Division and Operation Safe Haven with a special luncheon to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
The event, held at the Headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos, Plateau State, was attended by top military officers, including some retired senior personnel.
Represented by the Deputy Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage Future Centre, Major General PE Eromosele, the Army Chief commended the troops for their dedication, sacrifice, and resilience in the line of duty.
“This celebration is an opportunity to express deep gratitude for the gift of life and the relative peace restored in several parts of the country,” Lagbaja said. “The troops have shown unshakable loyalty and courage, recording significant victories in the face of daunting security challenges.”
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, pledging continued efforts to ensure peace and create a stable environment for national growth.
The COAS also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his “unwavering support, focused leadership, and strategic guidance” to the Nigerian Army.
In his welcome remarks, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, said the luncheon was organized to honour troops who remain in the field during the Sallah celebration, safeguarding the peace of the nation.
He described Eid-el-Kabir as a festival of sacrifice, urging personnel to reflect on the virtues of obedience, faith, and selflessness — qualities that define military service.
Oyinlola praised his men for confronting threats ranging from communal unrest to criminal gangs across the Joint Operations Area, and expressed appreciation to the COAS for consistent support, combat equipment, and prioritization of soldiers’ welfare.
He also commended families of troops for their unwavering support to loved ones serving on the frontlines.
“We remain committed to ensuring that every Nigerian — regardless of religion or ethnicity — enjoys the right to live in peace and dignity,” the Commander said.
Highlights of the event included a cultural dance performance by the Irigwe New Wave troupe, the symbolic serving of food to troops by senior officers, a raffle draw, jokes, and the presentation of souvenirs.
