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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, has said that over 163 years of the Nigerian Army’s (NA) existence, it has remained a symbol of patriotism, resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to national service.
The Army Chief stated this during the special Jum’at prayers and Interdenominational Church Service held at the JAJI Military Cantonment Central Mosque and Saint Peter’s Military Catholic Church, JAJI, on Friday, 26 and Sunday, 28 June 2026, respectively.
The special prayer sessions were aimed at commemorating the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. While delivering the COAS’ goodwill message to the NA family, the Commander, Infantry Corps (CIC), Major General GM Mutkut, who was represented by the Commandant, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), Major General DG Allu, applauded officers, soldiers, and their families including civilian staff for their sacrifices and contributions towards the remarkable milestone achievement of the NA over the past 163 years.
He noted that the successes recorded were a result of the collective efforts of NA personnel in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders. Speaking further, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the occasion (NADCEL) provides the Army an opportunity to thank God for His mercies, reflect on the journey so far, as well as celebrate what has been accomplished, while honouring heroes and renewing commitment to the defence of Nigeria.
He added that the theme of NADCEL 2026,” *Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the NA* “, would serve as a clarion call for introspection, renewal, and rededication to service. “My command philosophy places a premium on leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness, and welfare of personnel”, the COAS said; adding that NA personnel remain most valuable.
He noted that troops’ welfare, which includes improved accommodation, health care services, training opportunities, educational support, and other welfare initiatives constitute major priority for the NA.
Earlier on Friday, 26 June 2026, during the NADCEL special Jum’at prayers at the JAJI Military Cantonment Central Mosque, the Chief of Staff, Infantry Corps Centre, Brigadier General MA Tijjani, who represented the CIC, while delivering the COAS’ goodwill message to troops, recognised the numerous contributions made by NA fallen heroes. He said, ”
As we celebrate our achievements, we must never forget the gallant officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our beloved nation.
We honour their memories, and pray for the peaceful repose of their souls”.
He also recognised the sacrifices of wounded soldiers, veterans, as well as families of personnel, adding that their contributions to national security would continue to inspire future generations of NA soldiers.
The COAS, further appreciated the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support, strategic guidance, and commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities and welfare of the Armed Forces.
Special prayers were conducted for leaders at all levels of government, members of the Armed Forces, and for the nation at large.
The prayer sessions at the JAJI Military Cantonment Central Mosque and Saint Peter’s Military Catholic Church were well attended by Commanders and Commandants of various military formations,
Training Institutions, senior officers, soldiers, and their family members in JAJI Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
