GOC 2 Division Harps On Patriotism, National Development

GOC 2 Division Harps On Patriotism, National Development

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, has urged students to be patriotic, disciplined and responsible citizens in building a peaceful, united and secure Nigeria. He made the call on Friday, 3 July 2026, during a public speaking engagement programme held at Command Day Secondary School, Apata, Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of activities lined up for the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).

The GOC, who was represented by the Acting Director, 2 Division Education Services, Colonel Michael Williams, said the NA remains committed not only to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity but also to ensuring the education and character development of young people in line with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.

He further maintained that the future of Nigeria rests on the shoulders of the students. This, he said, calls for them to exemplify patriotism, discipline, integrity and respect for national values. “The Nigerian Army is committed to protecting our nation and serving the people. Beyond our constitutional responsibility of defending the country, we believe in mentoring the younger generation to become responsible citizens who will contribute positively to Nigeria’s growth and development,” he said.

Colonel Williams urged the students to shun cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, criminality and other social vices, while encouraging them to pursue academic excellence and serve as ambassadors of peace in their respective communities.

The public speaking engagement programme, with the theme “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” brought together students, teachers and Nigerian Army officers to examine the role of young Nigerians in nation-building as the Nigerian Army celebrates its 163rd years of existence.

The engagement climaxed with a lecture presentation and an interactive session, where the students had their questions answered. Educational materials donated by the COAS were also distributed in support of educational development across the nation, underscoring the significance of NADCEL.