The Nigerian Army, in a significant gesture of recognition and solidarity, hosted a special Christmas luncheon for its frontline personnel at Daban Lema in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State. The event, held on Sunday, December 28, 2025, underscores a critical, often underreported aspect of military operations: the deliberate maintenance of troop morale and esprit de corps, especially during festive periods when operational demands remain high.
Presiding over the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, honoured the troops for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and maintaining peace across the Joint Operations Area of Responsibility. Represented by the Commander of the Signal Corps, Major General Muhammad Abdullahi, the COAS’s presence—even by proxy—sent a powerful message of command attention and appreciation directly to the soldiers in a forward operating environment.
This initiative is far more than a seasonal meal; it is a tactical component of modern military leadership. Shaibu’s call for troops to remain “vigilant, disciplined, and proactive” was coupled with a stark reminder: criminal and insurgent elements often seek to exploit perceived lapses in security during national holidays and celebrations. The luncheon, therefore, served a dual purpose—boosting morale while reinforcing the operational mindset necessary during a period of heightened risk.
Central to the COAS’s address was a firm reassurance regarding troop welfare. He outlined ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, enhance healthcare, and support the families of fallen heroes. This public commitment is vital for operational effectiveness. A soldier confident that their family is cared for and their basic needs are met is a soldier more focused on the mission. The event itself, held at a frontline location rather than a comfortable rear headquarters, physically demonstrated this priority.
The political dimension of civil-military relations was also prominently featured. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, represented by his deputy, Mr. Kayode Alabi, attended the event, stating it “underlines the importance which the country attaches to the wellbeing of troops.” This visible solidarity from civilian authority is crucial for legitimizing military operations and fostering national unity behind the armed forces.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding the 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Christopha Nnebeife, framed the luncheon as a direct manifestation of the COAS’s command philosophy. He noted that such “morale-boosting” activities are rooted in a leadership approach that recognizes the human element as the army’s greatest asset. The gathering provided a rare opportunity for informal interaction between the high command and rank-and-file soldiers, breaking down hierarchical barriers and allowing leadership to gauge the pulse of its personnel firsthand.
Ultimately, the Christmas luncheon in Kwara transcends a simple festive celebration. It is a calculated, multi-layered military tradition that serves strategic functions: reinforcing operational readiness during a vulnerable period, cementing the bond between command and troops, demonstrating tangible commitment to welfare, and showcasing the essential partnership between the military and the civilian government it serves. In honoring the troops, the Army also strengthens the very foundation of its operational capability—the spirit and well-being of its soldiers.
AGF/UNS
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Edited by Sandra Umeh
