Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, has underlined the Nigerian Army’s unflinching commitment to citizen security and the preservation of Nigeria’s democracy.
Oluyede disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists in Abuja on the schedule of events for the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), which would take place on July 6.
The Army Chief hailed the yearly ceremony as a chance to recognize previous and present officers and soldiers for their contributions to the country.
According to reports, NADCEL commemorates the founding of the Nigerian Army and the firing of the first shot of the Nigerian Civil War in Garkem, present-day Cross River State. The celebration began 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 made clear.
The COAS added that the yearly celebration allows the Army to highlight its achievements while also encouraging closer collaboration with other stakeholders.
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“This year’s subject, ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive,’ reflects the Army’s present strategy of prioritizing personnel welfare and professional development in 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,” said the army’s chief.
Terrorists Will Not Derail Nigeria’s Unity: COAS Declares
Oluyede stated that the Nigerian Army has constantly resisted terrorists and criminal forces seeking to undermine 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 told journalists.
The 2025 NADCEL comprises a number of activities targeted at improving civil-military relations, encouraging education, health outreach, and honoring military personnel’s sacrifices.
Among the planned events are:
Friday, July 4: The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) will commission civil-military cooperation projects in several districts of Kaduna State, as well as hold a golf tournament, provide free medical services, and conduct a charity outreach.
Public speaking engagements at chosen secondary schools in all army formations in the country.
On Saturday, July 5, there will be a public lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna, followed by the 2nd Chief of Army Staff Annual Literary Competition award ceremony.
A Gala Night for Officers and Soldiers at the Umaru Musa Yar’adua Conference Centre, Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.
Sunday, July 6: The Nigerian Army Day Celebration culminates with a military parade, equipment display, and the awarding of COAS Commendation Awards to worthy individuals.
Oluyede emphasized that the NADCEL remains a symbol of the Army’s dedication to unity, professionalism, and national development.
