COAS HOSTS EASTER LUNCHEON WITH TROOPS OF FOB UDOMI IN EDO STATE
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By DADA AYOKHAI
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, on Saturday, 4 April 2026, hosted a special Easter luncheon with troops of Forward Operation Base (FOB) Udomi of 4 Brigade under 2 Division Nigerian Army in Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State to mark the Easter celebration.
Delivering his goodwill message, the COAS stated that as Easter is being marked shortly after Eid-el-Fitr, it serves as a reminder of the nation’s collective strength, irrespective of different religious inclinations. He commended all personnel for their unwavering commitment and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. He further commended troops deployed across various operational theatres for safeguarding the nation with vigilance and selfless service.
The COAS, represented by the Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, Major General Adebayo Adegbite, noted that many personnel would observe the season far from home, yet their commitment to duty remains unshaken. He emphasized that their sacrifice is a powerful reminder that the security enjoyed by citizens is sustained through constant vigilance and selfless service. He reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ living conditions, enhancing their professional development, strengthening support systems for families, and ensuring that every member of the Nigerian Army is treated with dignity, fairness, and care.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, applauded the COAS for hosting the Easter luncheon with troops within 2 Division Area of Responsibility, describing it as a strong testament to his commitment to troop welfare, regardless of deployment location. He added that the gathering reflects the COAS Command Philosophy: “To transform the Nigerian Army into a professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
The GOC further stated that the honour was well deserved by troops of 4 Brigade and 2 Division, noting their exceptional courage and resilience across theatres of operation. He commended the troops for dominating their Area of Responsibility and neutralising threats such as banditry, armed robbery, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. He added that the troops’ successes have reassured the civilian populace and strengthened the bond between the Nigerian Army and the citizenry.
In a vote of thanks, the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, expressed appreciation to the COAS for celebrating Easter with troops of FOB Udomi. He noted that the gesture demonstrates that the troops’ sacrifices, vigilance, and daily engagements with adversaries are recognised and valued. He added that the Brigade is grateful for the strategic direction and vision shared by the COAS during the event. He also thanked the COAS for visiting troops at the FOB, noting that his presence has bridged the gap between headquarters and Frontline. He further appreciated the GOC for his pragmatic leadership, which he said has successfully balanced operational excellence with human connection.
He also acknowledged the presence of HRH Christopher Ike Kebordih (The Ebije I of Illushi Kingdom), Chairmen Esan Central and Esan South East Local Government Areas, heads of other security agencies in Uromi who graced the occasion.
Highlights of the event included a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops.
