The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has extended warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Nigerian Army personnel and their families, urging sustained unity, discipline and commitment to national service.
In a goodwill message marking the end of Ramadan, Shaibu congratulated Muslim officers and soldiers for successfully completing the holy month, describing the period as one of devotion, sacrifice and spiritual renewal.
He noted that the 2026 observance was particularly significant as Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, with both Muslim and Christian personnel undertaking fasting and reflection simultaneously.
According to him, the rare alignment underscores the unity and shared values that bind the Nigerian Army, despite differences in faith.
“The essence of both observances, which are sacrifice, humility, self-restraint and compassion, mirrors the core values of military service,” he said.
The army chief emphasised that the convergence of the two sacred periods demonstrated that diversity, when anchored on mutual respect, strengthened cohesion within the force.
Shaibu paid tribute to fallen heroes who died in defence of the nation, describing their sacrifice as a lasting inspiration to serving personnel.
He also commended troops deployed across various theatres of operation for their resilience and professionalism, noting that many remained on duty under difficult conditions while others celebrated with their families.
“We pray for their safety, strength and success, and look forward to their safe return,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to troop’s welfare, Shaibu said improving living conditions, enhancing professional development and supporting families remained central to his leadership philosophy.
According to him, the strength of any army lies not only in its equipment but in the morale and wellbeing of its personnel.
He further appreciated the collaboration of sister services and other security agencies, stressing that inter-agency synergy remained key to operational success and national stability.
The COAS also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, noting that his leadership provided motivation for troops in the discharge of their duties.
He urged personnel to uphold the lessons of Ramadan by embracing discipline, humility, compassion and unity in service to the nation.
