The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has issued a resolute directive to troops of the 8 Division Sokoto and the Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, urging them to maintain their operational momentum and decisively eliminate bandits and terrorists in the region. This crucial message was conveyed during an operational visit on Friday to the 248 Reconnaissance Battalion in Illela, Sokoto State, and later reiterated in a statement on Saturday by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations. Lieutenant General Shaibu unequivocally stated that the excesses of these criminal elements against the Nigerian people could no longer be tolerated.

During his address, the COAS highly commended the troops for their exceptional courage, professionalism, and unwavering resilience in confronting criminal elements. He applauded their bravery and the significant operational successes achieved so far, noting that their sustained efforts have profoundly improved security within their Area of Responsibility. He emphasized the necessity to maintain this momentum to completely defeat the terrorists and send them to “their maker,” stressing that their sacrifices have tangibly translated into enhanced security.

Demonstrating a strong commitment to troop welfare, Lieutenant General Shaibu announced directives for the construction of additional accommodation, medical, and other essential facilities at Illela Barracks. This initiative aims to significantly boost the morale, well-being, and operational effectiveness of the soldiers and their families.

Further highlighting the importance of troop welfare and morale, both the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, were in Sokoto on Friday to fete frontline troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA at a special Christmas luncheon held at Giginya Cantonment. The CDS conveyed heartfelt Yuletide greetings to the troops, acknowledging their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, especially during a time when many Nigerians were celebrating with their families. General Oluyede praised their steadfastness, describing them as "the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered."

The CDS also lauded the operational gains recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the troops’ relentless efforts have played a crucial role in restoring public confidence and stabilizing the North West geopolitical zone and its adjoining states. On his part, the COAS described the Christmas luncheon as a long-standing tradition designed to recognize the profound sacrifices, resilience, and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres. He expressed deep fulfillment in celebrating Christmas with the gallant troops and the CDS, assuring them that similar luncheons were simultaneously ongoing across other operational theatres nationwide. Lieutenant General Shaibu concluded by reflecting that the Christmas season offers an invaluable opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving, and remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to safeguard Nigeria. He affirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to honoring its fallen personnel by supporting their families and upholding their enduring legacy.