The Nigerian Army is set to celebrate its 161st anniversary, marking a milestone in its rich history of service to the nation.
Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja while briefing newsmen on the series of activities to mark the celebration noted that the Nigerian Army under his leadership will continue to conduct kinetic and non kinetic operations to ensure the quick resolution of our security challenges.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim noted that NADCEL is a celebration of one of the greatest Armies in the world whose eventful history spans 161 years. Nigerian Army has also made significant contributions to national development and progress in several areas such as security, education, engineering, health, science, sports and many other spheres.
He added that it is due to these accomplishments NA always seize the opportunity presented by the period culminating into 6 July to celebrate and give glory to Almighty God. “As you may all know, the date; 6 July itself symbolically signifies the day in the Nigerian Civil War when the First Shot was fired in Nigerian Army’s quest to keep the nation united and indivisible.”
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration aims to showcase the Army as an instrument of national unity, integration, and development as well as highlight the achievements, capabilities and enduring reputation of the Nigerian Army and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will grace the Grand Finale as the Special Guest of Honour.
As the Nigerian Army evolves, it has continued to build capacity and modernised to effectively meet its responsibilities. The capabilities and doggedness of the Nigerian Army ensured its troops participated in the First and Second World War and numerous peacekeeping and peace support operations in different parts of the world.
The Nigerian Army also took active part in the unfortunate Nigerian Civil War, which ended with the slogan “No victor, no vanquish”; reuniting the country in 1970. Its heroic exploits in Peacekeeping especially in the last 2 decades are well acknowledged globally and particularly by the United Nations.
The effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in peacekeeping has resulted in several requests for its deployment in various troubled countries, and despite our security challenges, Nigeria submit to calls for increased participation of her troops in international peace efforts.
The celebration, themed “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment”, will showcase the Army’s achievements, capabilities, and enduring reputation.
Key highlights of the celebration includes
A grand finale parade to be held at the 3 Division Physical Training Ground, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment on July 6, featuring a parade and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.
The celebration will also feature an armament and equipment display, showcasing the Army’s military hardware and capabilities.
An exhibition on the historical transformation of the Nigerian Army will be held, highlighting the Army’s evolution since its inception in 1863.
The Chief of Army Staff Literary Competitions will be held, with an award ceremony for the winners.
The Chief of Army Staff will have an interactive session with media executives to discuss the Army’s transformation and its efforts to combat contemporary security challenges.
A Veteran’s Happy Hour will be held, providing an opportunity for retired and discharged Nigerian Army personnel to reunite and celebrate their service.
A Golf Tournament will be held at the Rhino Country Golf Club, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, featuring serving and retired personnel as well as other Golf lovers.
The Nigerian Army has come a long way since its inception in 1863, evolving from a local force to a modern and capable military force, ranked 39th in the Global Firepower Index of 2024. The Army’s capabilities and doggedness have been demonstrated in various conflicts, peacekeeping operations, and humanitarian endeavors.
The celebration is an opportunity to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve in the Nigerian Army, and to showcase the Army’s commitment to transforming into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force.
