The Nigerian Army has renewed its pledge to defend the country’s territorial integrity and protect its people as it celebrated its 163rd anniversary, assuring Nigerians that operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges will continue across the nation.
The commitment was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, in a goodwill message delivered on Sunday during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 Interdenominational Church Service in Abuja.
The church service officially flagged off activities commemorating the Army’s 163rd anniversary.
Represented by Maj. Gen. Maxwell Dangana, Oluyede described the occasion as a moment to give thanks to God, reflect on the Army’s history, celebrate its milestones and recognise the sacrifices of personnel who have served the nation.
He said, “Today provides us with an opportunity to thank God for His mercies, reflect on our journey, celebrate our accomplishments, honour our heroes and renew our commitment to the defence of our dear nation.”
He noted that the event also provided an avenue to appreciate “the sacrifices and dedication of our personnel who continue to serve with courage and professionalism in various operational theatres across the country.”
According to Oluyede, this year’s theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” underscores the military’s constitutional duty to safeguard lives and support national peace and stability.
He said, “The theme is a clarion call for introspection, renewal and rededication. It reminds us that our primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety, prosperity and trust of the Nigerian citizens we have sworn to protect.”
The Army chief stated that troops remain fully engaged in tackling terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities undermining peace across the country.
He said, “Despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.”
He added, “Through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralised, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities.”
Oluyede praised officers and soldiers for their discipline, loyalty and dedication, stressing that recent achievements were made possible through cooperation with sister security agencies and other relevant stakeholders.
Speaking on his leadership vision, he said the Army was committed to building “a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force” capable of meeting evolving security demands.
He explained that the philosophy prioritises leadership, professionalism, operational efficiency and personnel welfare through the “Soldier First” initiative.
“Our personnel remain the Nigerian Army’s most valuable asset. Accordingly, we have continued to prioritise troop welfare by improving accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other welfare initiatives,” he said.
The Army chief also revealed that recruitment into the force had risen significantly following President Bola Tinubu’s directive aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security framework.
He said, “This strategic expansion aims to strengthen the Army’s operational capacity and enhance our ability to respond more effectively to contemporary security threats.”
He assured Nigerians that the newly enlisted personnel would be “adequately trained, properly equipped and professionally developed” to play effective roles in safeguarding the nation.
Oluyede paid tribute to fallen soldiers, saying their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“We must never forget the gallant officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation. Their courage, patriotism and selfless service remain a source of inspiration to us all,” he said.
He equally acknowledged the contributions of injured personnel, military veterans and the families of serving officers.
He said, “Your unwavering support, patience, understanding and sacrifices constitute a critical pillar of our operational success.”
The Army chief expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his support for the Armed Forces, noting that recent operational successes were made possible by the administration’s backing.
He said, “The successes recorded by the Nigerian Army in recent times would not have been possible without the continued support of the President and the Federal Government.”
He called on both military personnel and Nigerians to continue praying for peace, national unity and divine protection while reaffirming the Army’s dedication to its values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.
In his sermon, the Director of Chaplaincy (Roman Catholic), Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Anthony Maimagani, described military service as a divine mission rooted in courage, justice, sacrifice and service to humanity.
Maimagani urged officers and soldiers to respect the dignity of all Nigerians, emphasising that protecting innocent citizens remains both a constitutional obligation and an act of service to God.
He encouraged troops to stay resolute amid current security challenges and to continue displaying courage, humility, integrity and compassion in carrying out their responsibilities.
The chaplain also offered prayers for the protection of the Armed Forces and the nation, expressing optimism for enduring peace, justice and unity across Nigeria.
