Chief of Army Staff celebrates Christmas with sick and wounded soldiers

By Anthony Ekpo BASSEY

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, yesterday, celebrated Christmas with sick and wounded soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna and assured them that their sacrifices would never be in vain. 

According to a report by News Agency of Nigeria (NANS), The COAS used the opportunity to reiterate that the welfare of officers, soldiers and their families, the injured and the deceased soldiers, remain his top priority as long as he remains in office and praised the gallant soldiers for the bravery they exhibit at protecting the territorial integrity of the country. 

Represented by the Corps Commander Artillery, Maj-Gen. Marcus Kangye, he pledged his readiness at entrenching an efficient system of rewards and sanctions as well as promoting excellence. "All these are in furtherance of my command philosophy which is to consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment." The Army Chief, said. 

He expressed deep appreciation to all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices towards securing the lives and properties of their fellow countrymen. "This is especially to those deployed in the various theatres and peace keeping operations that would not likely be with their loved ones during the festive period due to the exigency of duty. The collective efforts of our troops towards securing lives and properties are well appreciated by Nigerians and the allies of Nigeria." He remarked.