- He highlighted the tireless vigilance of military men and women, who serve as guardians of the land, ensuring that others can rest peacefully at night
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, empathetically acknowledged the challenges faced by families of soldiers and military personnel combating insurgency, recognizing their loneliness and the homesickness experienced by Nigerian troops.
Speaking at the 2023 COAS Christmas Carol event held at Mogadishu Cantonment Parade Ground in Abuja, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, Lagbaja emphasized that the tranquility experienced by the nation comes at a considerable cost—the blood, limbs, and sacrifices made by military personnel for the well-being of families.
He highlighted the tireless vigilance of military men and women, who serve as guardians of the land, ensuring that others can rest peacefully at night.
Lagbaja underscored the significance of the Christmas carol, stating its purpose to glorify God, delve into His teachings, and collectively express gratitude for the concluding year. He emphasized the unique symbolism of the Christmas season, uniting everyone in reflection and thanksgiving.
He said, “For our warriors on the frontlines and their families back in our rear units, I must say I quite understand what you feel this season because I have served in many of our theatres of operations and I have been away from my family and loved ones.
“In times like this, I understand the loneliness our military families endure and the homesickness our troops in the frontlines battle.
“It is part of the sacrifices we make for the love of our nation and humanity.
“I am proud to say that your bravery, service, and dedication serve as an example to many out of uniform, and I convey the gratitude of our government and people for all you do.
“Christmas is about love, hope, giving and sharing, and taking cognizance of the fact that the gift of Christ to the world is born out of God’s love for humanity.
“As military men and women, our lives are one of sacrifice and duty.”
“It is in the light of filling the gaps created by deployment away from loved ones that the Army Headquarters and other Services Headquarters organise events such as this Christmas Carol service and other social get-togethers for us to create a sense of belonging for our military families at home and our troops on the frontlines,” he added.
Discussion about this post