The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has declared that the Nigerian Army remains an enduring symbol of patriotism, resilience, and unwavering commitment to national service, having successfully defended the country’s sovereignty for over a century and a half.
This assertion was made on Friday during a special Juma’at prayer held at the Nigerian Army Military Cantonment in Gusau to mark the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army, an event which serves as a key pillar of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. Delivered on his behalf by the Theatre Commander of Operation Fansan Yamma, the COAS extended his heartfelt congratulations to all officers, soldiers, civilian staff, veterans, and their families, urging them to use the milestone to thank God, reflect on their journey, and renew their sacred commitment to defending the nation.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the NA,” the Army Chief described it as a clarion call for introspection, rededication, and a reminder that their constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety and trust of citizens. He noted that troops remain actively engaged in multi-faceted operations to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other criminal activities threatening national stability.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the personnel for their discipline and bravery, highlighting that their collective efforts alongside sister services have neutralized numerous criminal elements, dismantled terrorist enclaves, rescued hostages, and restored normalcy to various troubled communities.
The COAS also emphasized that his core Command Philosophy focuses on transforming the military into a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force within a multi-agency environment. Underpinning this vision is a “Soldier-First” culture which recognizes the personnel as the institution’s most valuable asset, prompting a sustained prioritization of troop welfare through enhanced accommodation, better healthcare services, advanced training opportunities, and robust educational support.
By fostering this supportive environment, the leadership aims to ensure that every officer and soldier can serve with optimal dignity and pride while their families receive the welfare they richly deserve.In alignment with the strategic directives of the Federal Government to decisively tackle contemporary security threats, the Nigerian Army has embarked on a significant recruitment drive.
Lt Gen Shaibu revealed that this deliberate expansion, ordered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at boosting the Army’s operational capacity across all theatres. He assured the public that these newly recruited young Nigerians are being adequately trained, properly equipped, and professionally developed to meet the rigorous demands of military service and to contribute meaningfully to the overarching framework of national security.
1 Brigade Nigerian Army Gusau
Amid the celebrations, the Army Chief paid a solemn tribute to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the country, stating that their courage and selfless service will forever remain a source of profound inspiration. He also recognized the enduring sacrifices of wounded personnel, veterans, and military families whose patience and unalloyed support form the backbone of the military’s operational successes.
Furthermore, he expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast strategic guidance, financial support, and commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
Meanwhile, the Theatre Commander led the congregation in prayers for divine wisdom, protection, peace, unity, and prosperity for Nigeria, its leaders, and its deployed troops. He charged the entire Nigerian Army family to steadfastly uphold the military’s core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, and professionalism as they forge ahead.
