Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai has charged troops in the northeastern counter-insurgency operation to prepare for a final showdown against Boko Haram.
He says attempts to allow the war against the insurgency drag further into 2017 will deepen the violence in the region.
Buratai also commended the troops for their sacrifices, commitment, loyalty and courage in defending the nation against Boko Haram terrorists.
He asked all commanders to plan aggressive raids on Boko Haram hideouts with other military organisations, especially the air force and the navy, to ensure the remnants of the insurgents are cleared.
Buratai also urged his men to treat all captured and surrendered Boko Haram terrorists “humanely and fairly” in accordance with international humanitarian law.