The Nigerian Army has renamed “Operation Zaman Lafiya” as “Operation Lafiya Dole” as part of efforts to rejig and add renewed vigour to the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country. The new Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, made this known yesterday at 103 Battalion Nigerian Army based in Konduga, Borno State.

The COAS had hit the ground running shortly after taking over the command of the Army on Thursday, July 17, by promptly travelling to the North-East 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.

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 actualise 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” 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.

•Photo shows COAS, Maj.-Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai.

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