Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has offered strong encouragement to Nigerian Army troops, urging them to maintain their morale and defend the nation against the presence of terrorists and bandits in various parts of the country.
Lt Gen Lagbaja conveyed this message during his visit to Niger State on Tuesday, prompted by an insurgent ambush in the Zungeru area, which led to the loss of valiant soldiers. He emphasized the importance of unity and determination among the troops to counter these threats and regain control over troubled regions.
The COAS visited the Forward Operating Base Erena in the Shiroro area, where he received a security update from Maj Gen Bamidele Alabi, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division. Addressing the troops, Lt Gen Lagbaja reiterated the just cause of their fight against insurgents and bandits, highlighting the significance of safeguarding the nation and its people.

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In a statement by Army spokesman Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Lt Gen Lagbaja affirmed that protecting lives and defending the country is a noble service. He urged the soldiers to maintain their dedication and not waver in the face of challenges, emphasizing the necessity of reclaiming areas controlled by adversaries.
He said, “Protecting lives and defending your nation is the noblest service anyone can offer. You are therefore in the noble profession of arms and must not allow your morale to dwindle. We must defeat the adversaries of our people and take back every inch of space where they are hibernating in our land.”
Lt Gen Lagbaja assured the troops of his commitment to their well-being and that of their families, making it a cornerstone of his Command Philosophy. He directed the immediate reinforcement of the troops with additional combat resources to enhance their operational effectiveness.