CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF TREATS OFFICERS, SOLDIERS OF 2 DIVISION TO 2024 CHRISTMAS LUNCH

By: POLYCARP OKOYE

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, NAM, celebrated Christmas with officers and soldiers of Headquarters (HQ) 2 Division Nigerian Army (NA), and other units and formations within its Area of Responsibility (AOR). The celebration was marked with a lunch held at Major General JM Inienger Sports Complex, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, on Tuesday 24 December, 2024.

While delivering his Christmas goodwill message to troops, the COAS, who was represented by the Corps Commander Signals, NA, Major General GO Adesina, expressed delight over an opportunity to celebrate Christmas with troops in 2 Division NA. He gave thanks to God Almighty for assisting the NA in overcoming the many challenges it faced during the year; adding that the achievements recorded so far worth the celebration. The COAS said, “I want to take this moment to express my sincere gratitude and respect to all officers and soldiers for your doggedness and bravery in tackling the security challenges within your AOR.” This special Christmas lunch is intended to help me meet with troops in the field in an atmosphere of joy and festivity, so as to boost your morale and hopefully invigorate and recharge you all for the task that is still ahead of us in the new year.” General Oluyede further appreciated officers and soldiers who have paid the supreme price while serving the nation selflessly and defending its integrity. He saluted specially, the late COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, CFR, and all NA personnel who died defending Nigeria. “Our hearts and thoughts are always with their families”, he said, praying that God grants them eternal rest in his kingdom.

The Army Chief, also emphasized on commitment of the President and Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to provide all necessary assistance the NA requires to deliver on its constitutional duties. “On my part, I have directed that the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS), be enhanced and sustained for the benefit of troops”, he said, urging them to key into the available scheme in Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment. He further stressed that welfare of troops including the injured and families of the dead will remain major focus of his welfare scheme.

Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division NA, Major General Obinna Onubogu, noted that the COAS’ approval of the lunch, was aimed at recognizing as well as appreciating troops for their dedication and commitment in the conduct of their duties. He appreciated the COAS for his strategic guidance and unwavering support which he said was key to the successs recorded by the Division.

He also thanked serving and retired senior officer and dignitaries who graced the occasion, saying their presence was inspirational, and an indication of sustained love and unwavering dedication which they still have for the system. Major General SO Olabanji, Major General A Alabi and Brigadier General D Dahiru, were in attendance and celebrated the festive period with troops.

Highpoints of the occasion, were the distribution of lunch and music displays by 2 Div NA life band. The COAS and GOC, including serving and retired senior officers present served troops extensively to their preferred dishes.

CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF TREATS OFFICERS, SOLDIERS OF 2 DIVISION TO 2024 CHRISTMAS LUNCH