The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, has charged troops deployed in Benue State to remain vigilant and disciplined during the festive season, warning that criminal elements often take advantage of perceived security lapses.
Gara gave the charge while hosting a Christmas luncheon for troops of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Intervention Battalion XI/Sector 1 at Tatyough, Makurdi as the event formed part of activities to boost troop morale and reinforce commitment to sustaining peace across the Joint Operations Area.
While delivering the Chief of Defence Staff’s (CDS) Christmas goodwill message, the OPWS commander conveyed warm felicitations from the Service Chiefs and heads of security agencies to personnel on operations, including those currently receiving medical care at the 161 Nigerian Air Force Hospital and the 401 Brigade Medical Centre in Makurdi.
In the message, the CDS described Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice and renewal, urging officers and men to reflect on their collective responsibility to promote peace, unity and national development.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their resilience and continued support for the Armed Forces, noting that public trust remains critical to achieving lasting security.
The CDS reassured Nigerians of the military’s resolve to defend the country’s sovereignty and democratic institutions, while emphasising the need for synergy with sister security agencies and constructive engagement with host communities.
He also reiterated that troop welfare remains a priority, citing ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, healthcare and family support, and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to military operations nationwide.
In his remarks, Major General Gara highlighted the restoration of peace in Tatyough, once regarded as a deserted forest, noting that security improvements had renewed confidence and economic activities in the area.
He commended the troops for their professionalism and urged them to sustain the tempo of operations without ethnic or religious bias.
The event featured the serving of Christmas meals to frontline troops by the Force Commander and senior officers, as well as drills, sporting activities, presentation of tokens, a camp tour and group photographs, aimed at strengthening morale and leadership–troop relations.
