Army marks 163rd anniversary, renews commitment to protecting Nigeria

The Nigerian Army marked its 163rd anniversary, using the occasion to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and serving its citizens. The military pledged to continue its robust operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats plaguing the country.

“

Today provides us with an opportunity to thank God for His mercies, reflect on our journey, celebrate our accomplishments, honour our heroes and renew our commitment to the defence of our dear nation.

During the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 Interdenominational Church Service in Abuja, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Maj. Gen. Maxwell Dangana, delivered a goodwill message. He described the anniversary as a moment for gratitude, reflection on the institution's journey, celebration of achievements, and honoring personnel who have made significant sacrifices. The theme for this year's celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” underscores the military's core constitutional responsibility.

General Oluyede stated that the theme serves as a call for introspection and rededication, emphasizing the deep connection between the army's mandate and the safety, prosperity, and trust of the Nigerian populace. He highlighted that troops remain actively engaged in confronting terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft, noting that despite the complexity of these challenges, the Nigerian Army has achieved notable successes. These include neutralizing criminal elements, dismantling terrorist enclaves, rescuing hostages, and restoring normalcy to affected communities.

“

The theme is a clarion call for introspection, renewal and rededication. It reminds us that our primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety, prosperity and trust of the Nigerian citizens we have sworn to protect.

The Army chief commended the dedication, courage, and professionalism of officers and soldiers, attributing successes to effective collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. He outlined his command philosophy, which focuses on building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of responding effectively to contemporary security challenges. This philosophy prioritizes leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness, and personnel welfare under the "Soldier First" initiative, recognizing personnel as the army's most valuable asset.

“

Despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.