By Augustine Ehikioya
Impressed with troops’ sacrificial service in defence of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Nigeria, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has expressed profound appreciation to troops of the Nigerian Army (NA).
He noted that their sacrifices have been through their commitment and resilience in the ongoing fight against terrorism and other emerging security challenges in the country.
General Lagbaja gave the commendation on Wednesday 1 May, 2024, while addressing troops of 23 Brigade, Nigerian Army, at the Gibson Jalo Cantonment, Yola, the capital city of Adamawa State.
A statement by the Director Army Public Relations, Major General, Onyema Nwachukwu, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), said the COAS was in the state on operational visit to the Brigade.
It said “Gen Lagbaja noted that his desire to gain first hand insight into the welfare of the troops and assess their operational readiness, propelled him and his team to visit the Brigade today, notwithstanding that it is a public holiday.
“He informed the troops that the NA is on a transformational drive and the Federal Government has been supportive of that drive, with the provision of essential combat enablers and support for personnel’s welfare schemes.
These, he said, are already positively impacting on troops’ operational effectiveness and morale.
He particularly stated, that the Federal Government has approved funds to clear the backlog of Group Life Assurance claims that had accumulated since 2012, aside from, the ongoing drive to ensure conducive working and living conditions for both personnel and their families.
The COAS assured that the identified challenges observed in his tour of the Brigade will get prompt attention.
While in Adamawa, the Army Chief also paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of the state, Right Honourable Ahmadu Umar Fintiri at the State House, where he expressed appreciation to the government and good people of the state for standing with the troops for peace and tranquility.
He enjoined them to continue to rally support for the troops to enhance their operations.
Responding, the State Governor, who pointed out that crime has drastically reduced in the state, observed that under the present circumstances, the troops are doing very well and interagency cooperation has been commendable.
He affirmed that his administration will continue to support the NA and other security agencies, as they conduct their activities in the State.
