COAS boosts troop morale with easter luncheon in Edo

BENIN CITY — The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troop welfare and operational effectiveness, hosting an Easter luncheon for soldiers of the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Udomi in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The event, held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, brought together troops of 4 Brigade under the 2 Division Nigerian Army in a morale-boosting gathering to mark the Easter season.

In his goodwill message, the COAS noted that the Easter celebration, coming shortly after Eid-el-Fitr, underscores Nigeria’s unity and shared strength despite religious differences.

He commended officers and soldiers for their professionalism, resilience and dedication in safeguarding the nation.

Represented by the Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, Major General Adebayo Adegbite, the COAS acknowledged that many troops observe festive periods away from their families, yet remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties.

He described their sacrifices as the backbone of national security and assured personnel of continued efforts to improve their living conditions, enhance career development opportunities and strengthen support systems for their families, while promoting fairness and dignity across the service.

Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, lauded the COAS for identifying with troops in the field, describing the gesture as a demonstration of genuine commitment to their welfare regardless of deployment location.

He said the luncheon reflects the COAS’ command philosophy of building a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force capable of effectively carrying out its constitutional responsibilities in a joint operational environment.

Nnebeife commended troops of 4 Brigade and 2 Division for their courage and operational successes, noting that their efforts have helped curb banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities in their area of responsibility, thereby boosting public confidence in the military.

In his vote of thanks, the Commander, 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, expressed appreciation to the COAS for celebrating with the troops, describing the visit as a clear indication that their sacrifices are recognised at the highest level.

He said the presence of the COAS at the frontline had strengthened the bond between headquarters and field formations, while also acknowledging the leadership of the GOC in balancing operational demands with troop welfare, chairmen of Esan Central and Esan South-East Local Government Areas, as well as heads of other security agencies in Uromi.

Highlights of the event featured a luncheon, cultural dance displays, comedy presentations and morale-boosting performances by the troops.