The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, said that for its 163 years of existence, the Nigerian Army has remained a symbol of patriotism, resilience, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to national service.

Shaibu throughout this illustrious history, the Army continued to adapt to emerging security challenges, remaining steadfast in its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Speaking at the interdenominational Church Service to mark the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) at the All Saints Military Church, Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, the COAS said the theme of the celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army”, was thoughtfully chosen

Speaking through Maj.-Gen. Maxwell Dangana, Commander, Army Headquartres Garrison, Shaibu said, “This theme is a clarion call for introspection, renewal and rededication. It reminds us that our primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with safety, prosperity and trust of the Nigerian citizens we have sworn to protect.

“Today, our troops remain actively engaged in operations aimed at combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening the peace and stability of our nation. Despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.”

He said through dedication, courage and professionalism of officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralised, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities.

“These successes have been achieved through the collective efforts of our personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders. I commend our officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline and commitment to duty.”

The army chief acknowledged the sacrifices of gallant officers and soldiers, who paid the supreme price in line of duty for defence of the nation, saying that their courage, patriotism and selfless service remain a source of inspiration to serving personnel.

While honouring their memory and prayed for the repose of their souls, he also recognised the sacrifices of wounded personnel and veterans whose contributions to national security continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian soldiers.

Earlier, in a sermon, Brig.-Gen. A.F. Maimagani, the Director Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), Nigerian Army, described the military service as ” a prophetic call”.

The Chaplain said that the army protects Nigeria and Nigerians, rendering service to the Almighty God. “As soldiers, we protect others. Doing this brings glory to God. Being soldiers is God’s gift to serve our country,” he said.

Quoting from Exodus 3:4-10, Maimagani likened soldiers to the Biblical prophets God called to serve the nation of Israel at different times of their national challenges.

He said the army is protecting Nigerians from the menace of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and othe violent crimes as the hallmark of soldier is the courage to confront dangers and challenges on behalf of a nation.

The Chaplain prayed for personnel of the armed forces, urging them to be faithful, dedicated and committed to serving the country.