Minister, COAS charge troops to end Boko Haram insurgency

MINISTER of Defense, Mansur Dan Ali and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai yesterday charged soldiers to “remain focused and determined” to end Boko Haram terrorism in the country and meet the Presidential December deadline of ensuring peace in the North East geo-political zone.

Dan Ali and Buratai gave the charges Thursday, while on a two-day official operational visit to Operation Lafiya Dole at the Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.
“Our troops in the battle fields of Sambisa Forest and Northern Borno, have been doing a very nice job of securing the lives and property of the people.

And with the briefings the various commanders provided on their operations against insurgency, indicated of a great job for the country and its citizenry” the Defense Minister said during an interactive session with journalists.
He added that the troops are also up to the task of overcoming the challenges posed by use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by insurgents to attack soft targets in the affected states.

Buratai in his Christmas and New Year messages to the troops, also extended his warmest felicitations and the best wishes of joy, peace, and goodwill on behalf of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as they continue to render selfless service to the nation.
“You have responded magnificently to various rigours and dangers within the theatre of operations. You have struck fear into the hearts of the terrorists and overcome the resistance of insurgency in the Northeast,” he said, adding that the troops’ unconquerable spirit has
attracted overwhelming admiration and respect.

Buratai said the esteem in which the Nigerian Army is held now is higher than at any point in the recent past.
On welfare and effectiveness of troops, he said: “I assured you of my commitment to ensure optimal sustenance of your welfare as well as that of your families as you continue to render selfless service to
the nation.
“The President is making all efforts to improve your effectiveness and capacity. I have no doubt that with this renewed vigour from the Federal Government and the support of all Nigerians, the end of the operation is within sight.”

He however noted that the troops should discharge their duties in the best professional manner and in line with the Code of Conduct that was issued to them.
“Always be conscious of your responsibilities and what your commanders tell you to do,” the COAS counseled.

To the fallen heroes, Buratai said: “I pray to God to have mercy on their souls and continue to give their families the fortitude to bear their losses. We shall continue to support the families of our fallen heroes and ensure that their noble sacrifices are always remembered and appreciated.”