By Nkechi Eze
As part of events commemorating the 162nd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2025), the 1 Division Nigerian Army on Friday, June 27, 2025, held a special Juma’at Service in Kaduna for troops and their families, with prayers offered for the continued success of military operations and the repose of fallen heroes.
The solemn religious gathering, held at the Division’s central mosque, brought together officers, soldiers, and members of the wider military community in a show of faith, unity, and reflection on the Nigerian Army’s ongoing sacrifices in defence of the nation.
In an official signed statement, Lieutenant Colonel Shuaib Umar, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations for 1 Division, disclosed that the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force (Northwest) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Mayirenso Lander Saraso, was represented at the service by the Commander 101 Division Equipment Support, Brigadier General Muhammad Lawal.
Delivering the address on behalf of the GOC, Brigadier General Lawal underscored the spiritual significance of prayer, especially for troops deployed in combat zones across the country. He noted that the Nigerian Army draws strength not only from training and equipment but also from the prayers and moral support of the communities it protects.
“This special Juma’at service reminds us of the spiritual foundation upon which our strength as soldiers is built. We must continue to seek divine intervention in our operations, as we honour the gallant men and women who paid the ultimate price in the defence of our nation,” he said.
Earlier, the Deputy Director 1 Division Islamic Affairs, Lieutenant Colonel Yakubu, led a series of prayers for the success of Nigerian Army operations, the safety of troops, and peace in the country. He also paid tribute to soldiers actively combating insurgency, banditry, and terrorism in different theatres of operation, praying for their protection and ultimate victory over the enemies of the state.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) is an annual event dedicated to showcasing the operational achievements of the Army, strengthening military-civilian relations, and honouring the memory of fallen heroes. It serves as a moment for reflection, national unity, and recommitment to the Nigerian Army’s core values of loyalty, courage, and service.
As part of the week-long NADCEL 2025 activities, other events including medical outreaches, interdenominational services, literary competitions, and operational displays are expected to take place across formations nationwide.
