While commending troops for their sacrifices, commitment and courage, the Chief of Army Staff directed that they must embark on the final aggressive action and comprehensive sweep of the areas affected by the insurgency with a view to ending the operation on a sound note.
The Chief of Army Staff, Major-General TY Buratai, has directed troops deployed for Operation Lafiya Dole, the Federal Government's counter-insurgency initiative, to ensure that the remnants of Boko Haram are wiped out over the coming Yuletide season.
The Army chief also said he expects troops to return from the operational theatre to the barracks next year.
General Buratai's charge was contained in a goodwill message to troops on the approaching Yuletide season.
While commending troops for their sacrifices, commitment and courage, the Chief of Army Staff directed that they must embark on the final aggressive action and comprehensive sweep of the areas affected by the insurgency with a view to ending the operation on a sound note.
"In this regard, no stone should be left unturned. I therefore call on all officers and soldiers to buckle up and ensure that remnants of Boko Haram terrorists are completely cleared," Buratai said.
He also promised to visit the troops in the course of the month to provide motivation and positive influence on the ongoing operations.
This, he explained, is aimed at ensuring that the Northeastern part of the country enjoys a blissful Yuletide and year end.
"I urge all commanders to plan and embark on effective patrols, raids, ambushes and deliberate attacks in conjunction with other services, especially the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Navy to rescue all those abducted by the terrorists," added the Army chief.
He reminded troops that captured Boko Haram terrorists or those that surrendered should be treated in strict accordance with the provisions of international humanitarian law and laws of armed conflict.
"In doing so, we must be prepared to enter all fortresses, camps, dens and enclaves of the Boko Haram to completely flush them out and dominate these areas to ensure they are not reoccupied.
"I wish to reiterate that December is a month of decision. It is either we succeed in clearing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists or we continue to live in perpetual cycle of their atrocities in the North East," Buratai warned.
He expressed the desire to return the troops to the barracks next year, leaving behind only a strong unit that will reassure the populace as normalcy finally returns to the area.
