The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said the patriotism, selfless service and courage of Nigeria’s fallen heroes remain a lasting source of inspiration to officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.
The COAS made the remark on Sunday during the Interdenominational Church Service held as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 at All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja.
Represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, General Shaibu described the church service as one of the key events commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
He said the occasion was dedicated to honouring the sacrifices, dedication and unwavering commitment of fallen heroes and serving personnel who have continued to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national unity.
The Army Chief commended troops for their resilience, sacrifice and commitment to duty, urging them to remain courageous, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their responsibilities across the country’s various theatres of operation.
In his sermon, the Director of Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), Brigadier General Francis Maimagani, charged officers and soldiers to remain faithful in serving God and humanity through their military vocation. He also encouraged them to remain steadfast and courageous in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities in the defence of the nation.
The service attracted senior government officials, military leaders and members of the Nigerian Army community.
Among those in attendance were the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), represented by Major General Henry Wesley (Rtd); representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs; Principal Staff Officers from the Defence and Service Headquarters; serving and retired senior military officers; officers and soldiers; members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA); the Soldiers’ Wives Association, and other invited guests.
The interdenominational service forms part of the week-long activities lined up to commemorate NADCEL 2026 and celebrate the Nigerian Army’s 163 years of service to the nation.
