The Nigerian Army has called on its personnel to renew their commitment to faith, patriotism and national service, declaring that defending Nigeria demands moral conviction as well as operational readiness during the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) Interdenominational Church Service.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made the call at the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) Interdenominational Church Service held at the All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
Delivering an address on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, said the Army’s 163rd anniversary offered an opportunity to thank God for His protection, honour fallen heroes, and recommit officers and soldiers to their constitutional responsibility of protecting the nation and serving its people.
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The goodwill message highlighted recent operational gains against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats while reaffirming the Army’s “Soldier First” culture, expanded recruitment programme, and continued investment in troop welfare, training and operational readiness.
Delivering the sermon, the Director of Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), Brigadier General A. F. Maimagani, described military service as a divine calling.
He urged personnel to use their professional skills and experience in service to God through the protection of humanity.
Special prayers, led by the Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), Colonel Reverend B. P. Myam, sought God’s guidance for Nigeria, the Armed Forces, serving troops, military leadership, veterans, wounded personnel and the families of colleagues who paid the supreme sacrifice.
A rendition of Timi Dakolo’s (Greater Nation) by the choir inspired emotional reflections on patriotism, while the Matan Zumunta (Women’s Fellowship) urged worshippers to embrace sacrifice, unity and nation-building.
Among the dignitaries at the service were the Minister of Defence, represented by his Special Adviser, retired Major General Henry Wesley, and the Chief of Defence Staff, represented by the Chief of Defence Communication, Major General Kennedy Osemwegie, alongside senior military officers and members of the Nigerian Army family.
The church service formed part of the week-long activities marking NADCEL 2026 ahead of the grand finale scheduled for 6 July in Port Harcourt.
