Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has warned troops under Operation FASAN YAMMA against complacency and indiscipline as they tackle insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Speaking during a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) session held Tuesday at the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto, General Musa represented by Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole commended the troops for their bravery and commitment but stressed the need for continued vigilance.
“The battle is a just one. Don’t sleep, because your enemies are not sleeping,” Musa said. “Your GOC and every officer under Operation FASAN YAMMA deserve accolades for a job well done.”
He urged the soldiers to maintain strict discipline, follow operational guidelines, and build trust with local communities, noting that collaboration with civilians and other security agencies is vital to long-term success.
“Let people run to you, not away from you. The best intelligence comes from the civilians you protect,” he added, highlighting that victory over insurgency and banditry hinges not only on firepower but also on public trust.
Major General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, thanked the CDS for the recognition, describing it as a validation of the Division’s people-focused strategy.
“The CDS 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.
He emphasized the troops’ moral obligation to act with empathy and justice. “We are not from the sky. We have children, siblings, relatives. And we pray that all of you return home safely, not in coffins,” he added. “Nigeria remains one. The bandits will not win. And our Armed Forces will not sleep.”
The session also featured lectures on human rights, gender-based violence, and military ethics, alongside medical outreach, sporting events, and media engagements to strengthen civil-military relations.
