The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, on Saturday, 21 March 2026, held a special Sallah luncheon with troops of the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State to mark the Eid-el-Fitr.
Addressing the troops, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhancing troop morale and strengthening inter-agency collaboration through welfare-driven initiatives. He urged them to remain steadfast in the defence of peace, unity, and national sovereignty.
The COAS, represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, reiterated the need for troops to remain resilient and unwavering in their commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting the lives of citizens. “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.
He also appreciated the sister services and other security and intelligence agencies whose collaboration, professionalism, and dedication continue to strengthen collective efforts. “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.
Furthermore, he conveyed profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support, steadfast leadership, and continued commitment to the welfare, operational effectiveness, and institutional development of the Armed Forces. He noted that the President’s strategic guidance remains a strong source of motivation as the military continues to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, stated that the COAS Luncheon is a significant and symbolic annual event held during festive periods such as Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas celebrations. He explained that the initiative is a strategic leadership engagement designed to boost the morale of frontline soldiers, recognise their sacrifices, honour fallen heroes, and strengthen the bonds of camaraderie within the military. He also appreciated the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting his area of operational responsibility to celebrate the Sallah luncheon with the troops. He equally appreciated the Chairperson Owan West LGA Madam Joy Ohonyon who was represented by the Vice Chairman Mr Dele Aleburu as well as the HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, Odibiado of Sobe for gracing the event. He further thanked heads of other security agencies in Sobe for honouring the invitation.
Highlights of the event included a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops
*KENNEDY ANYANWU*
Captain
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
4 Brigade Nigerian Army
Benin City
22 March 2026.
