CDS hails Troops in Northwest, urges deeper civil-military cooperation, discipline, alertness

Gbolahan Salman Sokoto

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has commended troops of Operation FASAN YAMA for their bravery and dedication in combating insecurity across Nigeria’s Northwest region, urging them to remain vigilant and committed to civil-military cooperation.

Speaking through Rear Admiral Olusanya Abiodun Bankole during a strategic Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) visit to the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army at Giginya Barracks, Sokoto, the CDS warned against complacency.

“The battle you are fighting is a just one. Don’t sleep, because your enemies are not sleeping,” Bankole told the troops on behalf of General Musa.

He lauded the operational achievements of the Division under Operation FASAN YAMA, noting their consistency in weekly reports to Defence Headquarters.

“The 8 Division keeps coming up for praise. The CDS has asked me to personally commend your GOC and every officer under Operation FASAN YAMA for a job well done,” he said.

Emphasizing the need for unity among security services and a strong bond with host communities, he stressed that victory in the fight against insurgency and banditry depends on both firepower and the trust of civilians.

“Let people run to you, not away from you. The best intelligence comes from the civilians you protect,” he added.

Major General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division, responded with gratitude and affirmed the Division’s people-focused strategy.

“The Chief of Defence Staff’s leadership philosophy reminds us that real success in asymmetric warfare lies not only in tactical gains, but in winning the hearts and minds of our people,” Ajose said.

The visit also featured a sensitization lecture on human rights, gender-based violence, and military ethics, an initiative aimed at deepening professionalism and discipline within the ranks.

Ajose further reiterated the moral weight of their mission: “As protectors of the vulnerable, we must embody empathy, discipline, and justice. Today’s engagement strengthens our collective resolve.”

Rear Admiral Bankole concluded the visit by extending emotional tributes to the families of servicemen and women.

“You were not dropped from the sky. You have children, siblings, families, and we pray that all of you return home safely, not in coffins,” he said. “Nigeria remains one. The bandits will not win. And our Armed Forces will not sleep.”

The event also included plans for medical outreach, sporting competitions, and media engagements to bolster ties between troops and host communities.