Eid-el-Fitr: COAS Hosts Troops in Edo, Reaffirms Commitment to Welfare and Operational Excellence
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to boosting troop morale and strengthening inter-agency collaboration through welfare-driven initiatives, as he hosted frontline soldiers to a special Sallah luncheon in Edo State.
The luncheon, held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area, formed part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and underscored the Army leadership’s continued engagement with troops in operational areas.
Addressing the soldiers, the COAS represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun according to a press release e-signed by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations 4 Brigade Nigerian Army
Benin City, KENNEDY ANYANWU
Captain urged them to remain resolute in their duties. He emphasized the importance of defending national unity and sovereignty despite the challenges of their deployment.
“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments, far from the comfort of their homes, yet remain steadfast in loyalty and professionalism. Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage represent the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier. We pray for their safety, strength, and success in all ongoing operations, and we look forward to their safe return,” he said.
Reinforcing the importance of collaboration among security agencies, the Army Chief commended the synergy between the Armed Forces and other stakeholders, noting that joint efforts remain critical to national stability.
“The synergy among our services remains vital to sustaining operational success and national stability. Together, through cooperation and shared commitment, we will continue to confront challenges and preserve the peace and unity of our nation,” he added.
The COAS also conveyed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support to the military. He noted that the President’s “unwavering support, steadfast leadership, and continued commitment to the welfare, operational effectiveness, and institutional development of the Armed Forces” remain a major source of motivation for troops across various theatres of operation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, described the COAS luncheon as a significant annual tradition observed during major festive periods, including Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas.
He explained that the initiative is designed to “boost the morale of frontline soldiers, recognise their sacrifices, honour fallen heroes, and strengthen the bonds of camaraderie within the military.”
Lieutenant Colonel Agboro also expressed appreciation to the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting the operational base, as well as to local authorities and traditional leaders for their support. He specifically acknowledged the presence of the Owan West Local Government leadership, represented by Vice Chairman Mr Dele Aleburu, and the Odibiado of Sobe, HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, alongside heads of other security agencies.
The event featured a variety of activities, including a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs performed by the troops, all aimed at fostering unity and boosting the fighting spirit of personnel.
The Sallah engagement reflects the Nigerian Army’s broader efforts to maintain high morale among troops while reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s peace, security, and territorial integrity.
