The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, on Thursday celebrated Christmas and had lunch with troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and frontline soldiers of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Sokoto.

Addressing the troops at Giginya Barracks, the headquarters of Northwest Operation FANSAN YAMMA, General Musa firmly stated that there would be no foreign military base in Nigeria.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces have the capacity and capability to defend the territorial integrity of the country and address any local or foreign aggression. We will not allow an inch of Nigerian territory to be taken over by anyone to serve as a launching pad into our neighboring countries,” he said.

Reacting to a recent airstrike in Sokoto, General Musa issued a stern warning to those harboring bandits and other criminal groups, declaring that such individuals would be treated as accomplices.

“Anyone who turns himself into a rat must know that a cat will surely run after him,” the CDS warned.

He urged citizens to unite against common enemies, stating: “We must join hands with our neighbors to fight these criminal elements. Do not support Lakurawa or any criminal group. Anyone who harbors criminals is a potential target in this war against insecurity.”

General Musa thanked Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and military personnel for their sacrifices and commitment to tackling the nation’s security challenges.

He further charged the troops to remain focused, disciplined, and loyal to constituted authority while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities in a joint and multi-agency environment.

The CDS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“The Armed Forces will remain committed, determined, and focused on defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, protecting national interests, and supporting civil authority,” General Musa vowed.

In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, commended the troops for their operational achievements throughout the year.

He urged them to redouble their efforts, emphasizing that the security challenges in the Joint Operations Area require continuous vigilance and dedication.

“Remain disciplined, loyal, vigilant, and professional in your conduct during this season and beyond,” he charged.

He also expressed gratitude to the CDS for his leadership and strategic direction, which he said contributed significantly to the operational successes of the division.
The event was attended by representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto, heads of security agencies, senior military officers, and other notable dignitaries.

Highlights of the occasion included cultural dance performances by the Tiv Cultural Troupe, symbolic serving of meals to troops by the CDS, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph session.

The celebration underscored the military leadership’s commitment to troop welfare and morale, especially during the festive season.