COAS celebrates Easter with wounded soldiers, theatre troops

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Sunday  celebrated 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 their 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, especially when the British band Right Said Fred’s “Stand Up (For the Champions)” was played.

Attendees rose spontaneously to 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 10am.

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.

“This uncommon convergence underscores the unity that binds us as an Army driven by a shared purpose,” he said.

He further commended troops for their contributions to operational successes recorded so far in 2026.

The year has already recorded significant achievements across various operational, formation, and training activities in the Nigerian Army. This is due to your unyielding resolve to protect the nation’s sovereignty, peace, and stability,” he added.

The COAS also paid tribute to troops deployed across various operational theatres, particularly those spending the festive period away from their families.

“Their sacrifice is a powerful reminder that the security we enjoy is sustained by constant vigilance and selfless service,” he said.

He honoured fallen soldiers and assured those present that the Army would continue to prioritise the welfare of personnel and their families.

“We owe our fallen heroes a lasting debt of gratitude,” he stated.

Shaibu reaffirmed his commitment to improving personnel welfare through better living conditions, enhanced professional development, and stronger family support systems. He also emphasised the importance of integrity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

He stressed the need for collaboration among security agencies, noting that synergy remains vital to achieving national security objectives.

“Through cooperation and shared commitment, we will continue to confront challenges and preserve the peace and unity of our nation,” he said.

In his vote of thanks, the Commander of the 9th Brigade, Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi, expressed appreciation to officers, soldiers, and guests, describing the event as a reflection of unity, sacrifice, and commitment within the Nigerian Army.

Owolabi commended the COAS for his “Soldier First” policy, noting that it continues to boost morale and prioritise the welfare and readiness of personnel.

He also appreciated Major General Olusegun Aba for representing the COAS despite his demanding schedule, noting that his presence demonstrated the leadership’s commitment to engaging with troops.

The brigade commander further acknowledged the contributions of other senior officers and security agencies, stating that their participation strengthened inter-agency collaboration.

He urged troops to remain steadfast in their duties and draw strength from the lessons of Easter.

Personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and other security agencies were also in attendance.