By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on officers, soldiers, and their families to deepen their commitment to national service and spiritual devotion as the Nigerian Army marks 162 years of existence. He made the call in a goodwill message delivered during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025 Jumat Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services held across Army formations and units nationwide.
Congratulating the Army community on the anniversary, General Oluyede described the occasion as a significant milestone in the history of Nigeria’s military. “It is truly remarkable that the Nigerian Army is commemorating 162 years of dedicated service to our beloved fatherland,” he said. “We mark this milestone with profound joy and gratitude to God, whose grace has brought us victories in numerous battles and challenges.”
The Army Chief emphasized the importance of starting NADCEL 2025 with spiritual reflection. “Our gathering today is to thank the Almighty for His guidance through the past year and to seek His continued blessings in the days ahead,” he stated. “It is this deep sense of gratitude and desire for divine guidance that inspired our forebears to incorporate religious activities into the NADCEL tradition.”
Paying tribute to his predecessor, the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5, 2024, General Oluyede urged the Army to remember the legacy of selfless service left behind. “While we grieve, we take solace in the truth that God knows what is best for us all. Let us please observe a minute silence in his honour. May his soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed rest in perfect peace, amen.”
Acknowledging the security challenges facing the nation, the COAS charged officers and men to rise to the occasion. “Nigerians look to us to play a vital role in overcoming the current security challenges being experienced across the country,” he said. “We must, therefore, renew our commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights of all citizens.”
General Oluyede reaffirmed the Army’s regional and global standing in peacekeeping and counter-terrorism. “Globally, the Nigerian Army is recognized as a key player in regional security initiatives. At home, we remain the backbone of our national defence,” he stated. “From counter-insurgency efforts to peace support operations, our troops have consistently exemplified professionalism, discipline, and commitment.”
Reiterating his command philosophy, he said: “My vision remains 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 also unveiled the theme for this year’s celebration “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army Transformation Drive” which he said reinforces the Army’s emphasis on personnel welfare, professionalism, and national unity. “The theme highlights our responsibility to national integration and development and aligns with the broader policy dynamics of contemporary defence management,” he noted.
On the welfare of troops and their families, General Oluyede gave his assurance: “Army Headquarters will continue to put the welfare of our personnel and their families first. We must also remember to pray for the repose of our fallen colleagues and the recovery of our wounded warriors.”
He concluded by expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and other key national stakeholders. “On behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army and our families, I sincerely appreciate the President and Commander-in-Chief for his leadership and strategic policy guidance,” he said. He also extended gratitude to state governors, the Ministers of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, fellow Service Chiefs, members of the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people for their continued support.
“Once again, I congratulate the Nigerian Army family on this special occasion. Happy NADCEL 2025, and may God grant us more victories over the enemies of our dear country,” he concluded.
