By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede has on Thursday, 25 December 2025, feted frontline troops of 3 Division and Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) at a Christmas luncheon held in Plateau State, as part of efforts to boost morale and demonstrate leadership’s solidarity with personnel serving in various theatres of operation. The CDS was represented at the event by the Commander Armour Corps, Major General UB Abubakar.
Delivering the CDS remarks, Major General UB Abubakar conveyed warm greetings and goodwill to the troops, describing Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice, hope and renewal. He commended the personnel for remaining steadfast at their duty posts while many Nigerians celebrated with their families, noting that their courage, discipline and professionalism epitomise the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The CDS lauded the troops’ performance under Operation ENDURING PEACE, stating that their efforts have significantly restored confidence among law-abiding citizens and stabilised Plateau State as well as parts of Kaduna, Nasarawa and Benue States. He urged continued synergy with sister security agencies and sustained engagement with local communities in line with a whole-of-government approach to security.
He reassured personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, stressing commitment to improved living and working conditions, enhanced healthcare delivery and support to families. The CDS also emphasised the need for heightened vigilance during the festive period. He concluded by appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to military operations nationwide, while reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s resolve to remain resolute in the defence of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander JTF OPEP, Major General EF Oyinlola, expressed appreciation to the CDS for identifying with troops during the Yuletide season. He noted that the presence of senior military leadership at the event served as a strong morale booster for officers and soldiers deployed in the Joint Operations Area. He further highlighted operational successes recorded by the task force, including the neutralisation of criminal elements, arrest of suspected kidnappers and recovery of arms, which contributed to a relatively peaceful Yuletide across Plateau State and neighbouring areas.
A major highlight of the event was the symbolic serving of Christmas meals to frontline troops by the representative of the CDS and other senior officers, a gesture that reinforced leadership’s closeness to personnel on the frontline and further boosted morale among the troops.
