The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the security of citizens and preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
Oluyede stated this on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Abuja on the lineup of events for the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), which holds on July 6.
The Army Chief described the annual celebration as an opportunity to honour past and present officers and soldiers for their service to the nation.
Naija News reports that NADCEL commemorates the establishment of the Nigerian Army and the firing of the first shot of the Nigerian Civil War at Garkem, present-day Cross River State. The celebration was first observed in 1978.
“The Nigerian Army will not relent in its efforts to ensure the security of the Nigerian people and the perpetuity of our democracy,” Oluyede declared.
On the annual celebration, the COAS stated that the event enables the Army to showcase its achievements and foster deeper collaboration with various stakeholders.
“This year’s theme, ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive’, underscores the Army’s current strategy of putting personnel welfare and professional development at the forefront of military reform.
“The Nigerian Army has made significant strides in innovation, research and development, civil-military relations, and technological advancement to better equip the soldier to carry out his constitutional responsibilities,” the Army Chief stated.
Terrorists Will Not Derail Nigeria’s Unity – COAS Declares
Oluyede noted that the Nigerian Army has consistently pushed back against terrorists and criminal elements attempting to disrupt national unity.
“The Nigerian Army has risen to the occasion to deny these terrorists the opportunity to disrupt our socio-cultural heritage or smear the sanctity of our sovereignty,” he said.
The 2025 NADCEL includes a series of activities aimed at strengthening civil-military relations, promoting education, health outreach, and celebrating the sacrifices of military personnel.
Among the scheduled events are:
- Friday, July 4: Commissioning of civil-military cooperation projects in various parts of Kaduna State, a golf tournament, free medical outreach, and a charity outreach organised by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA).
- Public speaking engagements at selected secondary schools in all army formations across the country.
- Saturday, July 5: A public lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna, followed by the award ceremony for the 2nd Chief of Army Staff Annual Literary Competition.
- A Gala Night with officers and soldiers at Umaru Musa Yar’adua Conference Centre, Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.
- Sunday, July 6: The Grand Finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, featuring a military parade, equipment display, and the presentation of COAS Commendation Awards to deserving personnel.
Oluyede emphasised that the NADCEL remains a reflection of the Army’s commitment to unity, professionalism, and national development.
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