By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has underscored loyalty as a central pillar in the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army, describing it as a catalyst essential for institutional strength, operational excellence, and national service.
General Oluyede made this known on Sunday, 29th June 2025, during the interdenominational church service held at the All Saints Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, as part of activities commemorating the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS stated that the annual celebration offers an opportunity for sober reflection on the sacrifices, resilience, and commitment of Army personnel who continue to uphold the service’s constitutional responsibilities.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty, the preservation of its territorial integrity, and the defence of its citizens’ rights,” General Oluyede declared. He noted that NADCEL is not merely a ceremonial occasion but a solemn reminder of the patriotism and valour of both serving and fallen heroes across various theatres of operation.
The Army Chief emphasized the service’s determination to enhance its operational capabilities through rigorous training, strategic acquisition of combat enablers, and the consolidation of joint operational environments. He said these steps were vital to increasing mission effectiveness and tackling the myriad of security challenges confronting the country.
While commending troops for their courage, tenacity, and unwavering dedication to duty, General Oluyede paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. He charged serving personnel to remain bold, resolute, and loyal, even in the face of adversity.
He further pledged the Nigerian Army’s unwavering loyalty to the Constitution, the President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Nigerian people. “We deeply appreciate President Tinubu for his steadfast support, which continues to strengthen our operational resolve,” he added.
The COAS also expressed gratitude to the National Assembly, the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and other heads of security agencies for their strategic guidance and continued collaboration.
Delivering the sermon during the service, the Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lieutenant Colonel Martins Amuluche, urged personnel to uphold loyalty as a sacred duty, describing it as a testament of faithfulness to God and moral courage in the discharge of military responsibilities. He emphasized that a loyal soldier not only protects the nation but also upholds values that promote spiritual consciousness and personal transformation.
The interdenominational service was attended by top military and civilian dignitaries, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and his wife, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA); senior serving and retired officers; and members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA).
The event concluded with a vibrant thanksgiving session, marking a spiritual climax to the solemn celebration of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to national service.
