In a significant gesture of appreciation, Nigeria's top military commanders personally celebrated Christmas with soldiers on the frontlines in Plateau State. The event, held on Thursday, 25 December 2025, was a special lunch organized to honour the dedication and sacrifices of troops safeguarding the volatile region.
Leadership Celebrates Sacrifice and Success
The colourful gathering was hosted by the Headquarters 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP). It brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and guests in an atmosphere of unity and festive cheer. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede AFM, was joined by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W Shaibu NAM, who was represented by the Commander Armour Corps, Major General UB Abubakar.
In a statement released on Friday by the Military Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, Major Samson Zhakom, the CDS's warm Christmas greetings to the troops were highlighted. General Oluyede described Christmas as a season embodying love, sacrifice, and hope. He noted that while many Nigerians celebrate with families, frontline troops remain the unbreakable wall and unshakable hope for the nation, steadfastly fulfilling their oath.
He commended their selfless service, courage, and professionalism in executing Operation ENDURING PEACE. The CDS stated this operation has been pivotal in restoring public confidence and stabilising not just Plateau State, but also adjoining areas of Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Benue States.
Operational Gains and Calls for Vigilance
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, outlined the operational successes achieved. He highlighted achievements under Operation PEACE SHIELD, which included neutralising criminals, arresting kidnappers, and recovering arms and ammunition. These efforts contributed to a relatively peaceful yuletide across the Joint Operations Area.
Despite the celebrations, the CDS urged troops to remain vigilant, disciplined, and proactive. He reminded them that criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods to undermine peace and security. He called for continued collaboration with sister security agencies and positive engagement with local communities, whose trust is essential for lasting peace.
Welfare and National Resolve Reaffirmed
Reassuring the personnel, General Oluyede emphasized that their welfare remains a top priority. He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, enhance healthcare, and support their families. The CDS also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Commander-in-Chief, for his steadfast support for military operations nationwide.
The CDS reaffirmed the Armed Forces' resolve, in collaboration with sister agencies, to remain relentless in combating terrorism, defending democracy, and safeguarding the nation. He vowed that the military would continue to act boldly and decisively.
Echoing these sentiments, the representative of the COAS, Lieutenant General Shaibu, saluted the frontline troops for their sacrifices. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to professionalism, combat readiness, and personnel welfare.
A major symbolic moment of the event was the serving of Christmas meals to the troops by the CDS, the COAS's representative, and other senior dignitaries. This act reinforced leadership's closeness to the rank and file and served as a significant morale booster. The event concluded with renewed calls for discipline, unity, and professionalism, as troops were encouraged to celebrate responsibly while staying alert in defence of the nation.
