Prayers Across Worship Centres In 2 Division, As Nigerian Army Marks 163rd Anniversary

Prayers Across Worship Centres In 2 Division, As Nigerian Army Marks 163rd Anniversary

In commemoration of the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), prayers were offered across worship centres in 2 Division as part of activities earmarked for the NADCEL 2026 with the theme “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army”. The Inter-Denominational Church Service was held at All Souls’ Military Protestant Church, while the Special Juma’at Prayer was conducted at the Central Mosque, all at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, Oyo State.

While delivering the Goodwill Message of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, underscored the significance of NADCEL. He further maintained that the NA has remained a symbol of patriotism, resilience, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to national service. The occasion, he said, provided an opportunity to thank God for His mercies, reflect on the journey thus far, celebrate accomplishments, honour our heroes and renew commitment to the defence of the motherland. The COAS used the medium to appreciate personnel for the continued courage and professionalism, particularly across various operational theatres.

The COAS reassured personnel of his commitment to leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and the welfare of personnel. This, he maintained, is central to his philosophy, anchored on the “Soldier First” culture, which recognizes personnel as the most valuable asset in the NA. He also appreciated their families for the uncommon support and recognized the sacrifices of wounded personnel and veterans whose contributions to national security continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian soldiers.

The Army Chief conveyed the profound gratitude of the Nigerian Army to His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his steadfast support, strategic guidance and commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities and welfare of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He reiterated that the successes recorded by the Nigerian Army in recent times would not have been possible without the continued support of the President and the Federal Government.

The Church Service was conducted by Colonel (Rev Fr) Cosmas Chinemerem Nwankpa, the Deputy Director, Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), while the Special Juma’at Prayer was led by Lieutenant Colonel Shehu Abdullahi, the Deputy Director, Islamic Affairs. The religious leaders drew lessons from the Holy Books, expounding the theme for NADCEL 2026, with a greater call for commitment to national service and prayers offered for the Nigerian Army.