CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF REAFFIRMS TROOPS WELFARE AS TOP PRIORITY AT OPERATION WHIRL STROKE 2026 EID-EL-FITR CELEBRATION

Awe, Nasarawa State, Nigeria — March 23, 2026

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed that the welfare of troops remains a top priority of his leadership, as soldiers of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) marked the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration in Awe, Nasarawa State.

The COAS celebrated a special Sallah luncheon with troops deployed in the field, an event held at Government Secondary School, Awe. The gathering brought together personnel from Benue, Taraba and Nasarawa States, reflecting unity and shared commitment among the troops. Also present to honour the soldiers was the Emir of Awe, HRH Alhaji Dr Isah Abubakar Umar II, alongside other dignitaries from the local government area.

Represented by the Commander, 4 Special Forces Command, Major General O.A. Awolo, the COAS reiterated that the wellbeing of officers and soldiers remains central to his command philosophy. He emphasized that maintaining high morale is critical to operational effectiveness.

In his goodwill message, Lieutenant General Shaibu congratulated Muslim personnel and their families on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a period of sacrifice, discipline and spiritual renewal—values that closely align with military service. He also noted the rare overlap of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season this year, highlighting it as a symbol of unity and mutual respect within the Nigerian Army.

The Army Chief paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation, urging troops to remain resolute in their duties. He stressed that the strength of the Nigerian Army lies not only in its operational capabilities but also in the welfare and morale of its personnel. He further pledged continued improvements in living conditions, professional development and support systems for troops and their families.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also commended the collaboration among sister services and other security agencies, noting that synergy remains vital for sustained operational success. He expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support and strategic leadership.

In his remarks, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, described the celebration as an opportunity to appreciate and motivate troops, citing recent successes including the rescue of kidnapped victims and the neutralisation of criminal elements.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Commander Sector 2 OPWS, Brigadier General D.C. Nwakonobi, stated that the event boosted troop morale and strengthened their sense of belonging, assuring continued commitment to addressing security challenges.

The celebration featured cultural performances by the Jukun Cultural Dance Group, talent displays, presentation of souvenirs, refreshments and a group photograph, further fostering camaraderie among the troops.

AHMAD ZUBAIRU ZUBAIRU
Lieutenant
Acting Media Information Officer
HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE
March 23, 2026