By Halliru Ahmad
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty, strengthening professionalism and enhancing the welfare of its personnel as activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) got underway.
The Army Chief made the commitment in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Commander, Armoured Corps, during the NADCEL 2026 Juma’at Prayer held at the Obienu Barracks Central Mosque in Bauchi to commemorate the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
In the message, Lt. Gen. Shaibu congratulated officers, soldiers, civilian staff, veterans and their families for their dedication, resilience and sacrifices in service to the nation. He also expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His guidance and protection over the Nigerian Army.
Describing the anniversary as a significant milestone, the COAS said the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the Army’s achievements, honour fallen heroes and renew its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace, unity and territorial integrity.
He noted that 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 protect lives and property while fostering stronger public confidence in its operations.
According to him, the Nigerian Army has continued to record significant successes in its operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other forms of criminality across the country.
He said these achievements include the neutralisation of criminal elements, dismantling of terrorist camps, rescue of kidnapped victims and the restoration of peace in several troubled communities.The Army Chief attributed the successes to the courage, discipline and professionalism of officers and soldiers, as well as effective collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
Speaking on his command philosophy, Lt. Gen. Shaibu said his vision is to build a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient Nigerian Army capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint multi-agency operational environment.
He explained that the philosophy places strong emphasis on leadership, operational effectiveness and personnel welfare through the implementation of the “Soldier-First” culture, which recognises soldiers as the Army’s greatest asset.
The COAS stated that the Army has continued to improve the welfare of its personnel through better accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other initiatives designed to ensure officers and soldiers serve with dignity while their families receive adequate care and support.
Paying tribute to fallen heroes, Lt. Gen. Shaibu honoured officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, describing their patriotism and selfless service as enduring symbols of courage and inspiration.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices of wounded personnel, veterans and military families, commending them for their unwavering support and resilience.
The Army Chief urged officers, soldiers and Nigerians to use the occasion of the Juma’at Prayer to pray for lasting peace, unity, security and prosperity in the country.
He also encouraged personnel to remain steadfast in upholding the core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.
While congratulating the entire Nigerian Army family on the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration and the institution’s 163rd anniversary, Lt. Gen. Shaibu prayed for God’s continued protection, wisdom and blessings upon the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.