Army marks 163rd anniversary, renews commitment to protecting Nigeria

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The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and serving its citizens as it marked its 163rd anniversary, pledging to sustain ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, made the pledge in a goodwill message delivered on Sunday during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 Interdenominational Church Service in Abuja.

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The service marked the commencement of activities for the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army.

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Represented by Maj. Gen. Maxwell Dangana, the Army chief described the anniversary as an opportunity to thank God, reflect on the institution’s journey, celebrate its achievements and honour personnel who have made sacrifices in the service of the nation.

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He said, “Today provides us with an opportunity to thank God for His mercies, reflect on our journey, celebrate our accomplishments, honour our heroes and renew our commitment to the defence of our dear nation.”

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He added that the occasion was also meant to appreciate “the sacrifices and dedication of our personnel who continue to serve with courage and professionalism in various operational theatres across the country.”

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Oluyede said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflects the military’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard Nigerians and promote national stability.

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He said, “The theme is a clarion call for introspection, renewal and rededication. It reminds us that our primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety, prosperity and trust of the Nigerian citizens we have sworn to protect.”

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According to him, troops remain actively engaged in operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening the country’s peace.

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He said, “Despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.”

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He added, “Through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralised, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities.”

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The Army chief commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline and commitment to duty, noting that the successes recorded were made possible through collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.

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Speaking on his command philosophy, Oluyede said the Army remained focused on building “a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force” capable of responding effectively to contemporary security challenges.

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He said the philosophy places emphasis on leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and personnel welfare under the “Soldier First” initiative.

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“Our personnel remain the Nigerian Army’s most valuable asset. Accordingly, we have continued to prioritise troop welfare by improving accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other welfare initiatives,” he said.

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Oluyede also disclosed that the Army had witnessed a significant increase in recruitment following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

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He said, “This strategic expansion aims to strengthen the Army’s operational capacity and enhance our ability to respond more effectively to contemporary security threats.”

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He assured all that the new recruits would be “adequately trained, properly equipped and professionally developed” to contribute meaningfully to national security.

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The Army chief paid tribute to fallen personnel, describing their sacrifices as a lasting source of inspiration.

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“We must never forget the gallant officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation. Their courage, patriotism and selfless service remain a source of inspiration to us all,” he said.

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He also acknowledged the contributions of wounded personnel, veterans and military families.

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He said, “Your unwavering support, patience, understanding and sacrifices constitute a critical pillar of our operational success.”

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Oluyede expressed gratitude to Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, saying recent operational gains would not have been possible without the President’s backing.

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He said, “The successes recorded by the Nigerian Army in recent times would not have been possible without the continued support of the President and the Federal Government.”

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He urged personnel and Nigerians to continue praying for peace, unity and divine protection for the country and its armed forces while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to its core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.

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In a sermon, the Director of Chaplaincy (Roman Catholic), Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Anthony Maimagani, described military service as a divine calling to serve God, humanity and the nation through courage, justice and sacrifice.

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Maimagani urged officers and soldiers to uphold the dignity of every Nigerian, saying protecting innocent citizens was both a constitutional responsibility and a service to God.

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He encouraged troops to remain steadfast in the face of prevailing security challenges and to continue demonstrating courage, humility, integrity and compassion in the discharge of their duties.

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The chaplain also prayed for God’s protection over the Armed Forces and the nation, expressing hope for lasting peace, justice and unity in Nigeria.

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