By Heapnews
Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday hosted an Eid-el-Kabir luncheon for frontline troops serving under the 8 Division and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at the Forward Operating Base in Tureta, Sokoto State, as part of efforts to boost morale among soldiers battling insecurity in the northwest.
The event, held ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, was organised to honour troops deployed far from their families and reinforce camaraderie among personnel engaged in counterterrorism operations.
Representing the army chief, Commander Infantry Corps Major General Godwin Mutkut commended the troops for their discipline, resilience and sacrifices in safeguarding the country.
“The troops’ dedication and sacrifices remain the backbone of our nation’s security,” Shaibu said in a goodwill message delivered at the event, adding that the gathering underscored the Nigerian Army’s unity both “in battle and in celebration.”
Shaibu also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as strategic guidance and continued support for the military, while reaffirming the army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and creating a secure environment for economic growth.
In his remarks, General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, said the values of sacrifice, obedience and faith associated with Eid-el-Kabir reflected the ethos of military service.
Koughna praised troops for operational successes against terrorist groups and for responding swiftly to communal tensions within the division’s area of responsibility.
He also expressed appreciation to the army chief for providing combat equipment, reinforcements and welfare support for personnel, urging troops to remain committed to their duties.