The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has emphasised the pivotal role of loyalty in transforming the Nigerian Army, describing it as a critical catalyst for strengthening the institution.
General Oluyede made this assertion on Sunday, 29 June 2025, during an interdenominational church service held at All Saints Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, the COAS noted that NADCEL serves as an opportunity for reflection on the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering dedication of Nigerian Army personnel in fulfilling their constitutional duties.
General Oluyede said the celebration “symbolises the Army’s enduring dedication to Nigeria”, and highlights “the patriotism and valour exhibited by both past and present personnel across various theatres of operations.”
Despite the numerous challenges faced in the line of duty, he reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty, securing its territorial integrity, and safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
The COAS reiterated plans to enhance the Army’s operational efficiency through intensified training and the continued acquisition of combat enablers to boost effectiveness.
While commending the troops for their tenacity and commitment, he paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation. He urged serving personnel to remain “resolute and courageous in the face of adversity.”
General Oluyede also highlighted the Army’s readiness to work collaboratively with stakeholders in promoting joint and multi-agency operations to effectively carry out its mandate.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support for the Nigerian Army, pledging the institution’s loyalty to the Constitution, the Government, and the Nigerian people.
The Army Chief also extended gratitude to the National Assembly, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, fellow Service Chiefs, and heads of other security agencies for their guidance and cooperation.
Earlier in his sermon, the Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lieutenant Colonel Martins Amuluche, urged troops to uphold loyalty in the discharge of their duties, describing it as “an expression of faithfulness to God and a sign of unwavering moral courage.” He noted that a soldier’s loyalty has the power to “transform conduct and revive spiritual consciousness.”
The NADCEL 2025 interdenominational church service was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and his wife, the President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, senior serving and retired officers, as well as members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA).
PIAK