As part of activities marking the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army, known as the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Gusau organized an educational engagement on public speaking for students of the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Gusau.
Speaking during the event, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Lt. Col. Ibrahim Gobir, said the program was designed to build patriotism, discipline, and a sense of responsibility among the younger generation. He noted that the initiative is one of several events organized to commemorate the founding of the Nigerian Army.
Other activities conducted so far by the brigade in celebration of NADCEL include special Friday prayers, an interdenominational church service, a medical outreach, and educational support to selected schools in Zamfara State.
At the FGGC Gusau event which had in attendance the students from Government Day secondary school January; Government Day secondary school Danturai; Federal Government Girls College; Government Science Secondary school Gusau; and Government Girls Day secondary school Gada Biyu, the students were taken through a series of sensitization lectures delivered by senior army officers. spoke on “The Need to Be Patriotic Citizens of Nigeria,” urging the students to always prioritize the unity and progress of the country in their thoughts and actions.
They also addressed the theme “The Importance of Honesty and Integrity,” emphasizing that living a life based on truth and strong moral principles builds trust and respect, both personally and professionally.
There was a display of video clip of the history, organisational structures and operational activities of the Nigerian Army
On a related note, the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army sensitised the students on “Avoiding Criminal Company and Criminality,” cautioning students against negative peer influence, which was described as a major pathway into crime. He encouraged the students to choose their friends wisely and stay focused on their academic and life goals.
The fight against social vices continued with a presentation on “Advocacy Against Cultism, Drug, and Substance Abuse,” where the dangers of addiction and group violence were highlighted. Students were urged to stay drug-free and report any suspicious activities.
They similarly enlightened the students on “The Nigerian Army: A Symbol of Unity, Camaraderie, and Inclusiveness,” illustrating how the Army draws strength from the diversity of Nigeria’s ethnic groups, and serves as a model of national integration and teamwork.
In a lecture titled “Career Opportunities in the Nigerian Army,” students were briefed on various pathways into the Army, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Short Service and Direct Regular Commission. And the Army officers also spoke on “Civil-Military Relations and Development Projects Undertaken by the Army,” where he listed some of the humanitarian and development initiatives carried out by the military in communities across the country.
The event ended with an interactive session where students asked questions based on the topics discussed and other matters related to the Army. The officers provided clear and timely responses, making the session both enlightening and engaging.
The program was aimed at deepening the relationship between the military and civilians while nurturing the students to become better citizens, good ambassadors, and future leaders.
