The Nigerian Army has honoured its veterans and serving personnel at a colourful Gala Night held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to national security, military professionalism and the welfare of its personnel as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the event, which preceded the grand finale of the week-long celebration, underscored the Nigerian Army’s enduring resolve to recognise the sacrifices of its personnel while promoting national unity and strengthening collective efforts towards safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Speaking at the EUI Event Centre, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described NADCEL 2026 as another significant milestone in the Nigerian Army’s transformation journey, noting that the nationwide activities showcased the Service as a strategic institution of national cohesion and stability.
The Army Chief said the Nigerian Army’s legacy of courage, resilience and selfless service, demonstrated through peace support operations across Africa and ongoing internal security operations, continues to strengthen national security and inspire confidence in the Armed Forces.
Lieutenant General Shaibu paid glowing tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes, stressing that their sacrifices remain the enduring foundation upon which the Nigerian Army will continue to build a stronger, safer and more secure Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the welfare of its personnel and the continuous transformation of its operational capabilities to effectively address evolving and emerging security threats.
The Chief of Army Staff also expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast strategic support to the Nigerian Army, noting that the President’s commitment has continued to enhance operational effectiveness, force development and mission readiness across all theatres of operation.
Representing the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokoma, described the Gala Night as a fitting occasion to honour officers and soldiers who continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of the nation.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes and expressed solidarity with their families, while commending the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in maintaining peace and security in Rivers State, particularly through its collaboration with the 6 Division Nigerian Army.
Dr Wokoma also reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s commitment to sustaining partnerships with the Nigerian Army in the areas of logistics, operational support and personnel welfare in the collective interest of national security.
Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, described NADCEL 2026 as a memorable celebration that highlighted the Nigerian Army’s operational achievements, humanitarian engagements and expanding strategic partnerships.
He acknowledged the humanitarian initiatives of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association under the leadership of its National President and Wife of the Chief of Army Staff, as well as the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Summit.
Major General Etsu-Ndagi also expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government, African Chiefs of Army Staff, veterans and the former Force Commander of ECOMOG, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), for their enduring contributions to regional peace and security.
The Gala Night featured cultural performances, documentaries, musical and comedy presentations, as well as the presentation of awards to African Chiefs of Army Staff and distinguished veterans in recognition of their exceptional service and contributions to regional and continental security.
The event attracted former Chiefs of Defence Staff, former Chiefs of Army Staff, the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, members of the Diplomatic Corps, traditional rulers, serving and retired senior military officers, discharged personnel and their families, reflecting the enduring bond between the Nigerian Army, its veterans, strategic partners and the Nigerian people.
