Maj.-Gen. Uwem Bassey, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army Sokoto, has urged personnel not to be distracted by operational hardships but to remain committed to achieving success.

Bassey made the call during a special Church service as part of 2022 Nigerian Army Day Celebrations in Giginya Barracks on Sunday in Sokoto.

The GOC assured that the Nigerian Army would continue to accord priority to the welfare of personnel who were giving their best to the service of the country.

” When people see us in shiny dresses, they admire us, not knowing the hardships and challenges we undergo.

” We work under dust, rain and other situations in trying to make sure that law-abiding citizens go about their businesses peacefully,” the GOC said.

Bassey advised personnel to obey rules and always work towards pleasing their superiors in line with good conduct and guiding principles in the service.

According to him, Nigerian Army leadership strived in providing befitting accommodation and vehicles for Sergeant Regimentals and other personnel welfare improvements aimed at improving their welfare and service delivery.

The GOC added that three operational units were designed to facilitate improved productivity in tackling security challenges in the division’s operation areas.

He emphasised the need for personnel to continue preserving unity and cohesion in the service as Nigerian Army always encouraged tolerance, and abhorred ethnic or religious differences.

Bassey cautioned personnel against pursuing lavish lifestyles but always waiting for natural rewards in the service as hard work would always manifest and be recognised.

He assured that with the resources put together against security challenges in Northwest states all challenges would be overcome soon and would be history.

According to him, from his experience in service in northeast operations, the issues would soon be over, stressing that at present thousands of insurgents have repented.

During the church service, led by Chaplain, Lt. Col. Elemi Clement, prayers were offered for the souls of fallen heroes and for the success of various military operations at all levels, for peace to reign in the country.