Army renews pledge to protect Nigeria, serve citizens

The Nigerian Army has renewed its pledge to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and serve its citizens as it marked its 163rd anniversary. The military leadership committed to sustaining ongoing operations against various security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, which continue to challenge the country.

During the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 Interdenominational Church Service in Abuja, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, delivered a goodwill message. He described the anniversary as a moment for reflection, celebrating achievements, honoring sacrifices, and renewing dedication to national defense. The service marked the beginning of the 163rd-anniversary activities.

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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.

Gen. Shaibu emphasized that the celebration's theme, 'Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,' directly reflects the military's constitutional responsibility. He stated that the theme serves as a call for introspection and rededication, underscoring the deep connection between the Army's primary mandate and the safety, prosperity, and trust of the Nigerian people.

The Army chief reported that troops remain actively engaged in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft. Despite the complex nature of these threats, he noted that the Nigerian Army has achieved notable successes, neutralizing criminal elements, dismantling terrorist enclaves, and rescuing hostages, thereby restoring normalcy to affected communities. He attributed these successes to the loyalty, discipline, and commitment of officers and soldiers, as well as collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.

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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.