The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged to reward officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army who demonstrate outstanding performance and gallantry in the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations on wednesday 19, February 2025

Speaking to troops of the 3 and 17 Brigades in Kano and Katsina states respectively, during an operational tour of North West formations, the COAS lauded the troops for their successes in Operation Fansan Yamma. 

“I encourage the troops to conduct more vigorous onslaughts to completely eliminate the terrorists and insurgents,” he stated.

He assured the troops of the provision of adequate combat enablers to enhance their operational effectiveness. 

General Oluyede expressed concern about the challenges faced by soldiers who lack post-service homes and promised to expand the Affordable Housing Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Scheme. 

He also stated that efforts are being made to address accommodation challenges in the barracks.

“The COAS also maintained that the accommodation challenges in the barracks are being tackled head-on to provide improved living conditions for troops and their families,” a statement from the Nigerian Army said.

He urged the troops to be professional and reciprocate the government’s gesture by ensuring adequate maintenance of equipment and facilities.

The COAS inspected facilities in Bukavu Barracks, Kano, and Natsinta Barracks, Katsina.

Earlier, he received briefings on operational activities from Major General Ibikunle Ajose and Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, General Officers Commanding 8 Division and 17 Brigade respectively, and Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, who briefed him on the security situation in Kano State.

The COAS was accompanied by senior army officers, including the Chief of Operations (Army), Chief of Logistics (Army), Commander Infantry Corps, General Officer Commanding 1 Division, and the Provost Marshal (Army).

A highpoint of the visit was the laying of wreaths by the COAS at the Heroes Wall of the Headquarters 17 Brigade in honour of fallen heroes, and an unarmed combat demonstration by troops of 3 Brigade.à