The general officer commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Abubakar Wase, has lauded the gallant efforts of the military towards national peace.

The GOC stated this during an operational visit to formations and units in Niger to assess troop readiness and boost morale, according to a statement on Thursday.

Wase said: “The Nigerian Army appreciates your dedication and contributions toward national peace. You must continue to uphold professionalism in all operations.”

The GOC, who is also the commander of Sector 1 Operation Fansan Yamma, visited the forward operating base Erena in the Shiroro LGA.

“Let me convey the goodwill message from the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, who commended you for your gallantry and resilience,” he said.

Mr Wase lauded the troops’ commitment to dominating the area of operations against terrorist elements and urged them to sustain the tempo.

Addressing troops of 18 Brigade, the GOC said the visit was aimed at reassessing operational preparedness on the frontlines.

Mr Wase urged personnel to prioritise force protection and assured them that their welfare remained a priority of the Army Headquarters.

The GOC also tasked commanders to sustain operational momentum in collaboration with other security agencies and emphasised the need for continuous engagement with stakeholders to strengthen civil-military relations.

Mr Wase visited the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing at the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, where he was received by the coordinator, A.A. Ibrahim.

The GOC was briefed on operational activities by a representative of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron and later toured the facilities.

Mr Wase paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Minna, Umar Bahago, during which he thanked the traditional ruler for his support for military operations. He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to securing farmlands to enable farmers to carry out their activities without fear.

The emir described the army as a dependable force, restoring hope to the people, adding that the monarch offered prayers for success in ongoing operations.

The GOC had also paid a courtesy visit to former military dictator Ibrahim Babangida and thanked him for his continued support.

(NAN)