The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has described soldiers as the Nigerian Army’s “most valuable assets” and pledged to ensure they are adequately trained , properly equipped and professionally developed to meet national security needs.
He stated this in his goodwill message at the NADCEL 2026 interdenominational church service to commemorate Nigerian Army at 163rd years.
Represented by Maj Gen Maxwell Dangana, Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, the Army Chief said the “Soldier First” culture, which is central to his Command Philosophy recognizes that our personnel remains the Nigerian Army’s most valuable asset. He stated that the Nigerian Army under his watch has continued to prioritize troop welfare by improving accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other welfare initiatives.
“We remain committed to creating an environment where every officer and soldier can serve with dignity, confidence and pride while their families receive the support they deserve,” he said.
He noted that following the President’s directive, the the Nigerian Army has witnessed a significant increase in recruitment to strengthen the Army’s operational capacity and enhance our ability to respond more effectively to contemporary security threats.
He said, “We are committed to ensuring that these young Nigerians are adequately trained, properly equipped and professionally developed to meet the demands of military service and contribute meaningfully to national security.”
He stressed that the Nigerian Army 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.
He noted that despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.
According the Army Chief, through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralized, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities. He added that these successes have been achieved through the collective efforts of Army personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
He commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline and commitment to duty.
“As we celebrate our achievements, 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. We honour their memory and pray for the peaceful repose of their souls,”.
He also commended the sacrifices of wounded personnel and veterans for their contributions to national security which he said continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian soldiers. In his sermon, the Director of Chaplaincy (Roman Catholic), Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Anthony Maimagani, described military service as a divine calling to serve God, humanity and the nation through courage, justice and sacrifice. Maimagani urged officers and soldiers to uphold the dignity of every Nigerian, saying that protecting innocent citizens was both a constitutional responsibility and a service to God. He encouraged troops to remain steadfast in the face of prevailing security challenges and to continue demonstrating courage, humility, integrity and compassion in the discharge of their duties. The chaplain prayed for God’s protection over the Armed Forces and the nation, expressing hope for lasting peace, justice and unity in Nigeria.
