Army Chief Hails Troops for Crushing IPOB/ESN Strongholds in South-East
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended troops of Operation UDO KA for what he described as their resilience, gallantry, and sustained operational pressure against criminal elements linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Nigeria’s South-East.
The commendation was delivered during a Special Sallah Luncheon held at Mother Valley in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State—an area previously identified as a major insurgent stronghold.
Representing the Army Chief at the event, the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Valentine Okoro, conveyed the appreciation of the leadership of the Nigerian Army to frontline troops for their dedication and recent battlefield successes. He noted that the troops’ ability to dislodge entrenched fighters and dismantle terrorist infrastructure, despite persistent threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), underscores the Army’s growing combat effectiveness and operational dominance in the theatre.
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Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to professionalism and discipline, emphasizing its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect lives and property.
He also commended the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander of Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, for strengthening inter-agency collaboration. According to him, the synergy with other security agencies and host communities has significantly enhanced intelligence-driven operations and contributed to recent gains.
In line with the Army’s “Soldier First” doctrine, the COAS extended goodwill to wounded personnel undergoing medical treatment, assuring them of sustained institutional support for their recovery and welfare.
The event highlighted ongoing progress in degrading insurgent capabilities and restoring stability across the region. The Army urged residents of the South-East to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information, stressing that public cooperation remains critical to consolidating gains and achieving lasting peace.
By PRNigeria
