By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi O. Oluyede, has officially flagged off the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025 with a press briefing held at the Army Headquarters Conference Room in Abuja. The event marks the commencement of activities lined up to honour the Army’s 162 years of dedicated service to Nigeria.
Addressing members of the press, the Army Chief described the celebration as an opportunity to reflect on the rich history, sacrifices, and ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army. He noted that the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, first held in 1978, commemorates the establishment of the Army and the historical significance of the first shot fired at Garkem, present-day Cross River State, which signaled the start of the Nigerian Civil War.
“This year, the Nigerian Army is celebrating 162 years of service to our great nation, Nigeria,” General Oluyede stated. “That is over a century and a half of selfless dedication to duty, patriotism, loyalty and commitment to protecting our families, friends, compatriots and above all, safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of our beloved country.”
He traced the Army’s origins to 1863, when Lieutenant Glover of the Royal Navy established a local force made up of 18 Northern Nigerian indigenes, known as the “Glover Hausas.” From these modest beginnings, the Army has evolved into a robust and capable institution that has played a key role in major global conflicts, regional peacekeeping, and internal security operations.
General Oluyede reaffirmed the Army’s unyielding resolve in the face of modern challenges such as terrorism and insurgency, noting that the Nigerian Army has remained at the forefront of national security, often denying terrorists the ability to destabilize the nation’s socio-cultural fabric or undermine its sovereignty.
Highlighting the theme for this year’s celebration, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive”, the COAS explained that it reflects the Army’s renewed focus on soldier welfare and professional development. He said the theme underscores the Army’s commitment to innovation, civil-military relations, research and development, and technological progress as strategic tools to empower personnel.
“As part of the week-long celebration, several activities have been lined up. These include the commissioning of civil-military cooperation projects in Kaduna State, a golf tournament, free medical outreach, and a charity programme by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), all scheduled for Friday, July 4. Officers will also engage with students across Army formations through public speaking sessions in selected secondary schools.
“On Saturday, July 5, a lecture will be held at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, to deliberate on topical security and national issues. Later that day, the 2nd Chief of Army Staff Annual Literary Competition awards will be presented, followed by a Gala Night at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre, Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.
“The grand finale, which will take place on Sunday, July 6, will feature a military parade, equipment displays, and the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards to deserving officers and personnel.” He disclosed.
General Oluyede concluded by acknowledging the vital role of the media in promoting public understanding and supporting Army operations. “Our distinguished members of the press, it is important to acknowledge the long-standing partnership we share with you, which has significantly enhanced our operations in recent times,” he said, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to continued collaboration with media professionals, other security stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration remains a key national event to honour the courage, sacrifices, and legacy of the Nigerian Army as it continues to serve the nation with distinction.
