…Launches Operation Zaman Lafiya Dole “Peace by Force”
As part of the efforts to rejig and add renewed vigour to the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country especially in the North East, the Nigerian Army has decided to rename the Operation Zaman Lafiya” to “OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE” which means “Peace by Force”. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Tukur Yusufu Buratai made this known at 103 Battalion Nigerian Army based in Konduga, Borno State at the weekend.
The COAS who hit the ground running shortly after taking over the command of the Army on Thursday 17 Jul 15 by travelling to the northeast to celebrate this year’s Eid el Fitr prayers with troops in the frontlines. During the Sallah period he visited quite a number of units and troops, interacted with them and personally assessed the operations himself.
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The COAS also used the occasions to inform the troops of his vision and the resolve to end the activities of Boko Haram terrorists. He also assured them of the Federal Government’s support and that all necessary equipment and facilities would be provided to actualize the defeat of the insurgency. He commended them for their resilience, bravery and dedication and enjoined them to take the initiative and be more proactive. He commanded that troops should do more by pursuing and destroying Boko Haram terrorists within the bound of Rules of Engagement.
General Buratai further warned that he would not tolerate any act of indiscipline or cowardice from any soldier. He also exhorted commanders to be more proactive and respond promptly to distress calls. In line with his vision, some of the identified challenges in the frontline were proactively addressed through specific directives.
During the visit he also took meals with the troops and also paid courtesy calls on the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Shehu of Borno and the Deputy Governor of Borno State during he stated his mission and also thanked for their support to the troops.
Based on the new thinking the code name “OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE” which means “Peace by Force” is to send a strong and final warning signal to the terrorists that they cannot derail the wheel of peace in the north east or any part of Nigeria. He assured people of Yobe, entire northeast and Nigeria of the determination of the Nigerian army to successfully end the Boko Haram terrorists’ activities.
Colonel Sani Usman Kukasheka
Ag Director Army Public Relations
