Army Chief Urges Commitment to Values During Easter Luncheon
Lieutenant General Widi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has called on members of the Nigerian Army to uphold the organization’s core values of honor, responsibility, and respect for the rule of law as they carry out their constitutional duties nationwide.
This message was delivered during a special Easter luncheon for Operation Safe Haven and troops from the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army in Jos, Plateau State. Major General Godwin Muktokut, Commander of the Infantry Corps, represented the Army at the event.
General Shaibu extended warm Easter greetings to Christians and their families, describing this time as one of sacrifice, hope, reflection, and spiritual renewal. He noted that the 2026 Easter celebrations hold unique significance as they align with the Ramadan fasting period, underscoring a sense of unity among personnel of varying faiths. He emphasized, “This unusual gathering underscores the unity that unites us as an army driven by a common purpose.”
COAS praised the armed forces for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, peace, and stability. He stated that their dedication continues to instill confidence among the populace. During his speech, he paid tribute to service members deployed in different operational theaters, many of whom are spending the festive season away from their families. He also honored those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the nation.
General Shaibu reaffirmed his leadership priorities, emphasizing the need to enhance living conditions, promote professional development, and establish robust support systems for both active-duty personnel and the families of fallen service members. He assured soldiers that their well-being remains a central tenet of his command strategy.
Additionally, he acknowledged the crucial role of sister security and intelligence agencies in maintaining national stability and highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his ongoing support and commitment to the military’s welfare.
In his remarks, Major General Forusho Oyinlola, the GOC of the 3rd Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, praised the military for its professionalism and restraint during recent security challenges in the Jos metropolis. He stated that their measured response helped prevent an escalation of tensions and bolstered public trust in the military.
General Oyinlola reminded officials of the fluid nature of the operational environment, urging sustained vigilance, intelligence-driven operations, and strict adherence to professionalism while protecting innocent lives and respecting established authority. He also recognized the essential contributions of sister security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and the Plateau State Government, emphasizing that their collaboration is vital for maintaining peace in the region.
This Easter luncheon, organized at the initiative of the COAS, aimed to boost troop morale and reinforce the Army’s commitment to welfare, cohesion, and operational excellence.
