To mark the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, hosted a special Eid el Kabir luncheon for the gallant frontline troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tureta, Sokoto State.

The luncheon was organised to boost morale, foster camaraderie and honour the selflessness of troops who remain deployed on the frontlines, away from their families, to ensure the safety of the nation.

Representing the COAS, the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, delivered a powerful message of gratitude.

He commended the troops for their discipline and resilience, noting that the joint celebration is a testament to the Nigerian Army’s bond as a unified family.

In the goodwill message delivered, the COAS stated that the troops’ dedication and sacrifices remain the backbone of our nation’s security.

He said the luncheon is a reminder that the Nigerian Army stands together, not only in battle but also in celebration.

The COAS used the occasion to thank President Bola Tinubu for his strategic guidance and unwavering support.

He reassured the public that the Nigerian Army remains fiercely committed to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and creating a secure environment for economic prosperity.

In his welcome remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, reflecting on the significance of Eid-el-Kabir reminded the troops that the festival’s themes of sacrifice, obedience, and faith perfectly mirror the ethos of the military profession.

He lauded the personnel for their operational successes against terrorists networks and their swift responses to communal tensions within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.

The GOC expressed profound appreciation to Lieutenant General Shaibu for his continuous provision of combat enablers, timely reinforcements and his passionate commitment to the welfare of the troops.

He urged the soldiers to remain steadfast and to continue justifying the trust placed in them by the people.

This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 8 Division, Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel, Olaniyi Osoba.