Army chief urges renewed dedication to national service as Nigerian Army celebrates 162nd anniversary
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. O.O. Oluyede, has called on officers, soldiers, and their families to remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and peace, as the Nigerian Army commemorates 162 years of its existence.
Oluyede made the call in a goodwill message delivered to the Nigerian Army family during the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) Jumma’at prayers and interdenominational church services held across army formations and units nationwide.
He described the dual religious ceremonies as symbolic, reflecting the spiritual foundation and divine dependence of the Nigerian Army, whose motto reads: “Victory is from God alone.”
“Today’s gathering is to thank the Almighty for His guidance throughout the past year and to seek His continued blessings in the days ahead,” Oluyede said. “The NADCEL services also serve as a medium to honour our fallen warriors, celebrate those in active service, and pray for a stronger future for our Army.”
Reflecting on the army’s challenges and achievements in the past year, the COAS paid tribute to the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on Nov. 5, 2024.
“Though we grieve, we take solace in the knowledge that he rests peacefully in the bosom of the Almighty,” he said, urging personnel to observe a minute of silence in his honour.
Oluyede reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to the “whole-of-nation” approach to national defence and praised Nigerian soldiers for their professionalism, discipline, and sacrifices in both local and international operations.
“Globally, the Nigerian Army is recognised as a key player in regional security initiatives. At home, we remain the backbone of national defence, working tirelessly to protect lives, support civil authority, and maintain order,” he stated.
The Army chief highlighted the theme of this year’s celebration as “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army Transformation Drive.”
He explained that the theme reflects the Army’s renewed focus on personnel welfare, national unity, and aligning with contemporary defence and security policies.
“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,” he said.
Oluyede assured troops that Army Headquarters would continue to prioritise their welfare and that of their families, even as he urged prayers for those who paid the supreme sacrifice and those still recovering from wounds sustained in battle.
He also expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his leadership and policy guidance, as well as the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, state governors, and the National Assembly for their continued support to the Army.
“To the people of Nigeria whom we serve, we say thank you. We remain committed to defending your freedoms and securing your future,” Oluyede added.
He congratulated all officers, soldiers, and their families on the NADCEL 2025 celebrations, calling for unity and continued dedication to the Army’s constitutional responsibilities.
“Happy NADCEL 2025. May God grant us more victories over the enemies of our dear country. Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
