Emotional moments as COAS marks Easter with wounded soldiers, theatre troops

It was a deeply emotional moment on Sunday as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, marked Easter with wounded soldiers and troops in the theatre of operations.

Battle-hardened men who had faced terrorists and survived gunfire and explosions were moved to tears when the master of ceremonies called for a minute’s silence in honour of fallen colleagues.

The event, held at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, was organised by the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army as part of the COAS Easter Luncheon with troops in the field.

Emotions ran high as music filled the air. When the British band Right Said Fred’s “Stand Up (For the Champions)” played, attendees rose spontaneously, applauding soldiers; those alive, the wounded, and the fallen.

Similarly, “I’ll Be Missing You” by American rapper Puff Daddy and singer Faith Evans stirred deep emotions, with many soldiers visibly shedding tears in remembrance of their fallen comrades.

The luncheon formed part of efforts to boost troop morale and reinforce unity within the Nigerian Army.

Although the programme was scheduled to begin at noon, wounded soldiers and other troops began arriving as early as 10:00 a.m.

Many bore visible scars of war but carried themselves with pride, knowing they had given their all-in service to the nation.

Some arrived in wheelchairs, others walked with the aid of sticks, while a number had suffered amputations.

Despite this, they wore smiles as they gathered to share Easter with the Army’s top leadership.

The soldiers were later presented with gifts and food items.

In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General A.A. Babalola, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare and morale of frontline troops through initiatives such as the COAS Easter celebration.

He described the presence of Army leadership at the frontline as a clear demonstration of dedication to duty and national service.

“This luncheon is not merely a routine activity. It is a deliberate effort by the Chief of Army Staff to identify with our frontline troops who continue to demonstrate courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication under demanding operational conditions,” he said.

Babalola noted that Easter symbolises sacrifice, renewal, and hope, values that align closely with the experiences of soldiers in active service.

He commended the COAS for his leadership and commitment to troop welfare and operational effectiveness.

“Our sincere appreciation goes to the Chief of Army Staff for his exemplary leadership, strategic direction, and unwavering emphasis on troops’ welfare,” he added.

Addressing the troops directly, the GOC praised their discipline and professionalism despite difficult conditions.

“To our officers and soldiers, this event is dedicated to your sacrifices and loyalty. Your discipline, vigilance, and professionalism remain the backbone of the division’s operational successes,” he said.

He also urged them to remain vigilant and committed to achieving lasting peace.

Representing the COAS, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Major General Olusegun Aba, conveyed the Army chief’s message, commending officers and soldiers for their dedication to safeguarding the nation.

He noted that the COAS would have preferred to attend in person to appreciate the troops’ outstanding performance in the field.

Aba described Easter as a period of reflection, spiritual renewal, and reinforcement of values such as sacrifice, resilience, and hope.

“Perseverance through hardship leads to victory, and moral and physical resilience remain the foundation upon which enduring success is built,” he said.

He highlighted the significance of the 2026 Easter celebration coinciding with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a rare convergence that underscored unity within the Army.