Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, has hailed his officers and soldiers for their gallantry.

In his Christmas message, Buratai urged them to continue to defend the country and rid it of criminal elements.

He prayed to God to continue to guide them as they put their lives on the line for the nation.

His statement made available to DAILY POST read: “I wish to convey my warmest greetings to officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army and their families on the occasion of this year’s Christmas and New Year 2018 Celebrations. Christmas is an occasion for merriment, relaxation and reflections.

We must, therefore, continue to appreciate our collective responsibility towards the maintenance of the security conditions that allow for the proper celebrations of Christmas in every part of our country.

I commend the hard work and sacrifices of our gallant officers and soldiers currently engaged in Operation LAFIYA DOLE and other operations across the country.

This celebration is a testimony to our successes and also a celebration of your gallantry, tenacity and loyalty in the maintenance of peace/security in Nigeria. We continue to pray to the Almighty God for the repose of the souls of our fallen comrades.

I urge you all to maintain the momentum as we continue to professionally discharge our constitutional roles. I assure you of my commitment to your welfare and that of your families.

We must all remain loyal and grateful to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians for their unflinching commitment to bringing peace to every nook and cranny of our nation, and for supporting the Nigerian Army as required.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and New Year celebrations as we look forward to greater progress in 2018.”