Gov. Makinde Hails Troops’ Sacrifice, Promises Improved Welfare At COAS Eid-El-Fitri Luncheon In Igbeti
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — OYO State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has lauded Nigerian Army personnel for their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property, declaring that their commitment remains central to the relative peace and investment climate enjoyed in the state.
Makinde spoke on Friday at a Sallah luncheon organised for troops of the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army within its Area of Responsibility at the Forward Operating Base, Igbeti, in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The governor, who was the Special Guest of Honour, said the efforts of security operatives had made Oyo one of the safest states in the country, stressing that security remains the bedrock of economic growth and development.
“If there is no security, there will be no investment, no trade, and no meaningful economic activity. The sacrifices you are making for us as a people are the reason Oyo State continues to be regarded as one of the safest in Nigeria,” Makinde said.
He assured the troops that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare, noting that a motivated force was critical to sustaining peace and stability.
“We recognise your sacrifices, and I want to assure you that your welfare will continue to receive the attention it deserves,” he added.
In a goodwill message, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by Major General Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, congratulated Muslim personnel for successfully completing the Ramadan fast, describing the period as one that reflects discipline, sacrifice and spiritual renewal.
“This celebration marks the end of a period of devotion, sacrifice, self-discipline and deep spiritual reflection that resonates with the ethos of the professional soldier,” the army chief said.
He noted that the rare coincidence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season further reinforced unity within the Nigerian Army.
“This alignment has provided a powerful reminder that unity does not require uniformity. Though our forms of worship may differ, the essence remains sacrifice, humility, compassion and renewal, which are also the moral foundations of military service,” he said.
The Army Chief of Staff assured officers and soldiers that their welfare remained a central priority, stressing that the strength of the force depended on the morale and well-being of its personnel.
“The strength of any army lies not just in its equipment but in the well-being and confidence of its personnel. We are committed to improving living conditions and ensuring that every soldier is treated with dignity and fairness,” he added.
He also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, noting that the President’s leadership remained a strong source of motivation for troops across various theatres of operation.
The army leadership further paid tribute to fallen heroes while commending serving personnel deployed nationwide for their courage and dedication to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, formally welcomed the governor and other dignitaries, describing their presence as a significant morale booster for troops operating in the field.
“We are gathered here in the ancient town of Igbeti to celebrate the successful conclusion of the Holy Month of Ramadan. The presence of His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, despite his tight schedule, and that of the Chief of Army Staff, ably represented here today, is a clear demonstration of commitment to the welfare of troops wherever they are deployed,” he said.
Nnebeife explained that the luncheon was part of the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army into a professional, combat-ready and resilient force.
“This event is firmly rooted in the ‘Soldier First’ concept, which emphasises boosting morale and ensuring robust administration for enhanced operational effectiveness. It is not merely a celebration but a deliberate leadership gesture to recognise gallantry, reinforce cohesion and consolidate our operational gains,” he stated.
Highlighting the significance of the season, he noted that the coincidence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten period underscored unity within the Armed Forces.
“This unique convergence reminds us of our shared values. Just as we stood together in spiritual reflection, we stand together in the heat of battle. Our diversity is not a point of division but a source of strength,” he added.
The GOC commended troops for their operational successes across the division’s theatre, particularly in combating banditry and kidnapping.
“You have demonstrated exceptional courage and resilience. Your efforts have reassured the civil populace and strengthened the bond between the Army and the citizenry, even under the most challenging conditions,” he said.
He urged the troops to remain vigilant and sustain the tempo of ongoing operations, assuring them of continued support from the army leadership.
“The Chief of Army Staff has assured us of the resources and support required to ensure that terrorists, bandits and kidnappers are neutralised. You must continue to demonstrate professionalism and justify the trust reposed in you by Nigerians,” Nnebeife added.
The event was attended by senior military officers, representatives of other security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders among others