The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, has conveyed his gratitude to the troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices in addressing the emerging security challenges across the nation. This message was part of his goodwill message to the troops and their families on the occasion of Eid-El-Kabir 2023. General Lagbaja expressed his appreciation to the Almighty God for the protection and guidance bestowed upon them.
The COAS emphasized that the Eid-El-Kabir festival signifies the values of sacrifice and submission to the will of God, as exemplified by Prophet Abraham and emulated by Prophet Muhammad. He further highlighted that the festival serves as a reminder of the supreme sacrifices made by officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army on a daily basis, as they ensure the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In addition, General Lagbaja stated that the celebration embodies the core values of the Nigerian Army, including courage, selfless service, discipline, integrity, respect for others, and loyalty. He urged the troops to utilize the spiritual significance of the occasion to pray for the Nigerian Army's success in combating security challenges across various theaters of operation in the country.
As the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, General Lagbaja acknowledged that his appointment carries the responsibility to drive change and make a difference in fulfilling the constitutional mandate of the Nigerian Army. He emphasized his command philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force that can effectively carry out its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.
General Lagbaja commended the troops deployed in ongoing operations both within and outside the country for their sacrifices. He expressed his unwavering confidence in their dedication and commitment to ensuring the success of the Nigerian Army in countering the complex and unpredictable security threats faced by the nation, alongside other security agencies.
The COAS assured that he would provide the necessary leadership and build upon the achievements of the Nigerian Army to tackle the current security challenges confronting the nation. He urged the troops to remain steadfast, disciplined, patriotic, and resolute in their fight against the adversaries of the country.
Furthermore, General Lagbaja expressed his gratitude to the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the trust placed in him and the Nigerian Army. He reiterated the officers' and soldiers' unflinching loyalty to the constitution and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In conclusion, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, conveyed his appreciation to the Nigerian Army troops for their commitment and sacrifices. He emphasized the values embodied in the Eid-El-Kabir festival and urged the troops to remain dedicated, disciplined, and patriotic in combating the security challenges facing the country.