The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has called on troops to pray fervently for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes who made the supreme sacrifice in defense of the nation.
Speaking at the interdenominational church services to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024 held at the All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, General Lagbaja urged troops to remember the sacrifices of their fallen comrades and pray for their souls.
He emphasized the importance of honouring the memory of those who have laid down their lives in service to the nation.
“We gather today to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of our fallen heroes,” General Lagbaja said. “We remember their selflessness, their courage, and their dedication to the defense of our great nation. We pray for their souls, and we honor their memory by continuing to serve with the same level of commitment and dedication that they demonstrated.”
The COAS also urged troops to pray for the speedy physiological and psychological recovery of personnel who suffered injuries during operations in defense of the nation. He emphasized the importance of national unity, integration, and development, and commended the troops for their operational doggedness and commitment.
Victory is from God Alone
General Lagbaja reiterated the Nigerian Army’s motto, “Victory is from God Alone”, and attributed the army’s operational successes to God’s guidance and protection. He pledged the army’s unalloyed loyalty to the Constitution, Government, and people of Nigeria, and expressed appreciation for the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other government officials.
The COAS’s call to prayer and remembrance comes as the Nigerian Army celebrates its annual day celebration, themed “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment”. The theme highlights the Amy’s commitment to transforming itself into a more effective and efficient force, capable of meeting the contemporary security challenges facing the nation.
As the Nigerian Army celebrates its annual day celebration, the COAS’s call to prayer and remembrance serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes and the importance of honoring their memory by continuing to serve with dedication and commitment.
The event was attended by Principal Staff Officers from Army and Services Headquarters, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, and members of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives’ Association, among others. The highlight of the event was the NADCEL 2024 Special Thanksgiving, which featured prayers, hymns, and a sermon delivered by the Chaplain General of the Nigerian Army.
