By Augustine Ehikioya
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, has called on troops and other personnel to renew their commitments to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights of all citizens.
Stressing that Nigerians are looking up to the Nigerian Army to play a vital role in overcoming the current security challenges facing the nation, he said that the past one year has been challenging for the service.
This was contained in his message to the troops and personnel as the Nigerian Army Day Celebration NADCEL 2025 begins. It was made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA).
While this year’s event will be the 162nd anniversary, it is marked every July 6th.
Congratulating the officers, soldiers, and families on the occasion of the NADCEL 2025, the COAS said the Nigerian Army marks this milestone with profound joy and gratitude to God, and whose grace has ensured victories in numerous battles and challenges.
He said “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. Let us also continue to work together, united in our quest for peace, stability, and lasting prosperity for our dear country
“Globally, the Nigerian Army is recognized 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.
“While at home, the Nigerian Army is the backbone of our national defence, working tirelessly to protect our citizens, defending our territorial integrity and supporting the civil authority to maintain law and order.”
The COAS noted that soldiers have consistently exemplified professionalism, discipline and commitment as a formidable force from counter insurgency efforts to peacekeeping missions.
“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.
He pointed out that the NADCEL also serve as a medium to honour fallen warriors, celebrate those still in active service and pray for a brighter stronger future for the Nigerian Army.
According to him, the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the whole of nation’s approach to strategic preparedness and readiness that strengthens national resilience is unwavering.
“Thus, my Command Philosophy seeks “To Consolidate the Transformation of the Nigerian Army Towards Bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-Ready Force that can Effectively Discharge its Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-Agency
Environment.’
“This philosophy has defined our policies and engagements this past year and NADCEL 2025 provides an opportunity to showcase our achievements and review future plans in our pledged commitment to strengthening national security, the rule of law and the economic prosperity of our beloved nation.
“We have chosen the theme for this year’s NADCEL to be *_“Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army Transformation Drive”_* .
The theme, he said highlighted responsibility to national unity, integration, and development, and underscored commitment to aligning with the overall policy dynamics underpinning contemporary security and defence management in the country and beyond.
The COAS added “I charge you to do your best to make NADCEL 2025 a worthwhile celebration. I also assure you that the Army Headquarters will 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 expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his leadership and strategic policy guidance to the Nigerian Army.
“I also thank the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Honourable Minister of State Defence, and the Chief of Defence Staff for their leadership.
Furthermore, I appreciate the support and understanding of fellow Service Chiefs and heads of other security and intelligence agencies to the Nigerian Army this past year.
“My gratitude equally goes to the leadership and members of the National Assembly and the good people of Nigeria that they represent for their understanding and support to their Army.” he stated.
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