The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s resolve to strengthen national security, promote professionalism, and prioritise the welfare of its personnel as activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) got underway.
The army chief stated this in a goodwill message delivered at the NADCEL 2026 Juma’at prayer held at the Obienu Barracks Central Mosque in Bauchi to commemorate the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
Represented by the Commander, Armoured Corps, Lt. Gen. Shaibu congratulated officers, soldiers, civilian employees, veterans, and their families, while thanking God for His guidance and acknowledging their sacrifices in the service of the nation.
He described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the Army’s journey, honour personnel who paid the ultimate price in defence of the country, and renew its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
According to him, the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflects the Army’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property while strengthening public confidence in its operations.
The COAS said troops have continued to record significant successes in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other security threats through sustained military operations across the country.
He noted that several criminal elements had been neutralised, terrorist camps dismantled, hostages rescued, and relative peace restored in affected communities.
He attributed the achievements to the dedication, discipline, and professionalism of officers and soldiers, as well as effective collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
Speaking on his command philosophy, Lt. Gen. Shaibu said the focus remains on building a highly professional, resilient, combat-ready, and adaptable army capable of meeting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges within a joint operational environment.
He explained that the philosophy is anchored on effective leadership, enhanced operational efficiency, and the “Soldier First” initiative, which places the welfare and well-being of personnel at the centre of the Army’s activities.
He added that the Nigerian Army has sustained efforts to improve the living conditions of its personnel through better accommodation, healthcare services, capacity-building programmes, educational opportunities, and other welfare packages designed to support both soldiers and their families.
He paid tribute to fallen officers and soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, describing their courage and patriotism as a lasting inspiration.
He also recognised wounded personnel, veterans, and military families for their resilience and unwavering support.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu urged officers, soldiers, and Nigerians to use the Juma’at prayer to seek God’s guidance, peace, unity, and continued progress for the country.
He also encouraged personnel to remain committed to the Army’s core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, professionalism, and selfless service.
He concluded by congratulating the Nigerian Army family on the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration and the institution’s 163rd anniversary, while praying for God’s continued protection and guidance over the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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