NADCEL: COAS salutes personnel, fallen heroes at church service
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has urged officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to remain committed to professionalism, sacrifice and patriotism in the service of the nation.
Shaibu made the call in a message to the interdenominational church service held as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) at St. Andrew’s Church, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2026 NADCEL is themed: “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
The COAS, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, and represented at the event by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division, Brig.-Gen. Timothy Opurum, said the church service formed part of activities commemorating the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for officers and soldiers to thank God for His mercies, reflect on the Army’s journey, celebrate its achievements and honour personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation.
Shaibu described the Nigerian Army as a symbol of patriotism, resilience and sacrifice, noting that the institution had remained steadfast in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity for over a century.
According to him, troops remain actively engaged in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening national peace and stability.
He said significant successes had been recorded across various theatres of operation through the dedication, courage and professionalism of officers and soldiers working in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies.
The army chief explained that his command philosophy was aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities.
He said the philosophy emphasised leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and personnel welfare through the “Soldier-First” culture, which recognises personnel as the Army’s most valuable asset.
Shaibu added that efforts were being intensified to improve accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities and educational support for personnel and their families in order to enhance morale and operational effectiveness.
The COAS also disclosed that the Nigerian Army had witnessed increased recruitment in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at strengthening the Army’s operational capacity and improving its response to contemporary security challenges.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes, wounded personnel and veterans for their sacrifices, while also appreciating the families of officers and soldiers for their patience, understanding and unwavering support.
Shaibu further expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support, strategic guidance and commitment to improving the operational capabilities and welfare of the Armed Forces.
Earlier, the Acting Deputy Director of Chaplain Services, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Ven. Sunday Ugwu, said the sermon focused on service to the nation and sacrifice, drawing lessons from Exodus 3:4–10, where Moses was called by God to deliver his people from oppression.
Ugwu urged soldiers to emulate Moses by answering the call to defend the nation against insecurity.
He expressed optimism that with God’s help, political will and sustained support for the armed forces, Nigeria would overcome terrorism, banditry and other security challenges.
The interdenominational church service formed part of activities lined up for NADCEL 2026, which celebrates the contributions, sacrifices and achievements of the Nigerian Army in safeguarding the nation’s unity and territorial integrity.
