… as CAS, COAS attend Combined Service Chiefs’ Sallah Luncheon in Maiduguri
By Victor Akaa.
The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the bravery and resilience of troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in the fight against insurgency in the North-East region.
Speaking at the Combined Service Chiefs’ Sallah Luncheon with troops on June 7, 2025, held at Maimalari Cantonment,Maiduguri, Governor Zulum expressed his profound appreciation and solidarity to the Armed Forces.
According to Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Spokesperson of the Theatre Command OPHK, the Governor noted that “The Combined Service Chiefs’ Sallah Luncheon serves as a reminder of the daily sacrifices made by troops in defending our nation.”
He commiserated with the Armed Forces Nigeria (AFN) over the loss of personnel in recent attacks, particularly those wounded in action, and donated cash gifts to the affected personnel.
“We remain eternally grateful to the sacrifices of the gallant troops of the AFN,” he added.
Governor Zulum charged the troops to deal ruthlessly with terrorist collaborators and sympathizers, stressing that they were more dangerous than the terrorists themselves and should be treated accordingly, regardless of gender.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, on behalf of the Service Chiefs, reaffirmed the AFN’s role as the last line of defence for the nation and commended the troops for their recent operational feats.
“You are frontline warriors bearing the sacred responsibility of defending not just Nigeria’s territory, but also the hopes and aspirations of over 200 million citizens,” Air Marshal Abubakar said.
He commended troops for their boldness in the face of grave danger, their relentless pressure on insurgents and criminals, and their professionalism under intense conditions.
Paying tribute to fallen heroes, Air Marshal Abubakar stressed the importance of honouring those who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation, affirming that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
He also expressed deep appreciation to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering support to the AFN.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander (TC) JTF NE OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the Combined Sallah Luncheon as an opportunity and privilege for the troops to celebrate Eid El-Kabir with the Service Chiefs. He expressed optimism that the presence of service chiefs would further boost troops morale and fighting spirit in the theatre.
The event featured cultural performances by the Borno State Arts and Culture Troupe, presentation of cash gifts to families of fallen heroes and wounded-in-action personnel, and a special Sallah luncheon served to wounded troops by the Special Guest of Honour, Service Chiefs, and other dignitaries.
