Christmas At The Frontlines: COAS Honours Troops, Reaffirms ‘Soldiers First’ Commitment
In a powerful reminder that national security is sustained by human sacrifice, the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has celebrated Christmas with frontline troops of Operation HADIN KAI, OPHK, hailing their resilience, courage and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s peace and stability.
The COAS, represented by the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, hosted a special Christmas luncheon for troops on Saturday, 27 December 2025, at the 212 Battalion Parade Ground, Maimalari Military Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.
The gesture was aimed at boosting morale and appreciating soldiers who remain on duty while many Nigerians enjoy the festivities with their families.
Describing Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice and renewal, Lieutenant General Shaibu praised the troops for standing as “an unbreakable wall of hope” for the nation.
He commended their professionalism and gallantry in degrading terrorist threats and contributing to the relative stability being witnessed across Borno State and the wider North East.
The Army Chief urged the troops to remain vigilant and disciplined, warning that criminal elements often exploit festive periods.
He also reassured personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, citing ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, healthcare and support for military families, in line with the Nigerian Army’s “Soldiers First” culture.
The Theatre Commander, OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, highlighted significant operational successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, recovery of arms and ammunition, and the resettlement of internally displaced persons.
He described the COAS’s interventions as a major morale booster for troops in the theatre.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani, commended the Armed Forces for their patriotism and assured them of the state government’s continued support, while paying tribute to fallen heroes and wishing wounded personnel a speedy recovery.
The colourful event featured cultural dances, morale-boosting activities and the symbolic serving of Christmas meals to frontline and wounded soldiers by senior military leaders, reinforcing leadership’s closeness to the rank and file.
The celebration ended on a note of unity and renewed commitment, with troops encouraged to celebrate responsibly while remaining steadfast in the defence of the nation.
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