The Nigerian Army has announced plans to honour selected veterans of its peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sierra Leone by returning them to the two countries during this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, disclosed this after the Jumat prayer marking the commencement of NADCEL 2026, describing the initiative as a gesture of appreciation for personnel who helped restore peace in the West African nations during the 1990s.
According to the Army Chief, many of the officers and soldiers who participated in the peace support operations have never returned to witness the stability their sacrifices helped achieve.
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He said the visit is intended to recognise their contributions while inspiring serving personnel by demonstrating that the institution continues to value military service long after operational deployments have ended.
Shaibu explained that this year’s NADCEL activities are designed to celebrate the Nigerian Army’s history, honour fallen and serving personnel, and strengthen the bond between the military and the public.
He noted that the week-long programme, which will culminate in Port Harcourt on July 6, also includes religious services, community outreach, medical programmes, public engagements and other activities highlighting the Army’s constitutional role in protecting the nation.
The 2026 celebration is themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
