The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Sunday pays tribute to fallen warriors and pledged to support troops ad well as families.
Oluyede stated this in his goodwill message at the Inter-Denominational Church Service to Commemorate Nigeria Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.
The COAS was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division, Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force, North-West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.
The theme for this year’s NADCEL is ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army Transformation Drive’.
Oluyede congratulated the officers, soldiers. and the families on the occasion of the NADCEL.
He said the commencement of this year’s celebration with Friday prayers and Interdenominational Church Services across all formations and units was both significant and symbolic.
Oluyede said, “It is truly remarkable that the Nigerian Army is commemorating 162 years of dedicated service to our beloved fatherland.
“We mark this milestone with profound joy and gratitude to God whose grace has brought us victories in numerous battles and challenges, granting us victory that reaffirm the almighty God’s enduring love for our beloved nation.*
According to him, 2024 had been a challenging one for the Nigerian Army, notably, on November 5.
He said, “We suffered a great loss with the passing of our leader, the former COAS, Lt. -Gen. Taoreed A Lagbaja, who answered the call to eternal glory.
“We take solace in the truth that God knows what is best for us all. I urge us to be comforted with the knowledge that he now rests peacefully in the bosom of his creator.
“As we celebrate the Nigerian Army at 162, let us be mindful that Nigerians look to us to play a vital role in overcoming the current security challenges being experienced across the country.
“We must, therefore, renew commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty protecting its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights of all citizens.”
The COAS urged the troops to work together, united in the quest for peace, stability, and lasting prosperity Nigeria.
Oluyede added the Nigerian Army was recognised as a key player in regional security initiatives, contributing troops to various peacekeeping efforts and collaborating with international partners to combat terrorism and other security threats.
He said the Nigerian Army was the backbone of national defence, working tirelessly to protect the citizens, defending the territorial integrity and supporting the civil authority to maintain law and order.
Oluyede said, “Our soldiers have consistently exemplified professionalism, discipline and commitment as a formidable force, today.
“We stand as a forced focused on victory and fully aware of the spiritual dimension of our fighting power.
“We attribute our successes in battle to God, as clearly expressed in our motto, ‘Victory is from God alone’.
“I believe it was this deep sense of gratitude and that desire for divine guidance that inspired our forebears to incorporate religious activities into the NADCEL, alongside other commemorative events.
“Our gathering today is to therefore thank the Almighty for his guidance through the past year and to seek His continued blessings in the days ahead.”
He said NADCEL services also served as a medium to honour the fallen warriors, celebrate those still in active service and pray for a brighter stronger future for the Nigerian Army.
He restated the Army’s commitment to the whole nation’s approach to strategic preparedness and readiness that strengthens our national resilience is unwavering.
Oluyede assured that that the Army Headquarters would continue to put the welfare of its personnel and their families first.
“We must also remember to continue to pray for the repose of the souls of our beloved colleagues who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, and for the recovery of our wounded in action warriors.
“To these souls and their families, they left behind, we owe a debt of gratitude Nigeria and the Nigerian Army, salute and celebrate their courage, gallantry, and sacrifice, “he said.
The COAS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for the leadership and strategic policy guidance to the Nigerian Army.
He also appreciated Governors across the country for their unflinching support to the troops deployed for operations within their various states.
He also lauded the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State, Defence, and the Chief of Defence Staff, for their leadership.
Oluyede also extolled the support from fellow Service Chiefs, heads of other security and intelligence agencies to the Nigerian Army this past year.
He also appreciated theleadership and members of the National Assembly and Nigerians that they represent for their understanding and support to their Army.
In sermon , Lt.-Col. Sunday Ugwu , Deputy Director, Chaplain , 1 Division, said, “discipline begins with religion, and a good soldier should be God-fearing.”
He emphasised the connection between spirituality and loyalty, adding, ” the message encourages soldiers to cultivate a strong moral foundation, which is essential for their service and commitment to protecting others.”
