The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has issued a stern warning to terrorists and all enemies of Nigeria, asserting that their failure is certain.

Mr Oluyede reaffirmed the determination of the Nigerian Army to root out terrorism and ensure national security through effective counter-terrorism strategies.

He gave the warning during the interdenominational church service to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, on Sunday in Abuja.

The army chief reiterated the Niger Army’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights of all citizens.

“We shall never depart from our honour, which is tied to our faith, and we will continue to live true to the Nigerian Army motto, ‘Victory is from God Alone’.

“To all those who seek to disrupt the sanctity of our freedom, our heritage of liberty, and our enduring democracy, be assured that your failure is certain and your boast lacks value.

“The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to foster a joint and multi-agency environment to effectively deliver our mandate of securing our beloved nation,” he said.

The COAS said the tradition of NADCEL provided an opportunity to commemorate the army’s establishment and reflect on the sacrifices, resilience, and selfless commitment of its officers and soldiers in the service to the nation.

According to him, it is also a time to remember and honour the brave heroes who fell in the line of duty.

“The time-honoured tradition of commencing the Nigerian Army Day Celebration schedule of events with the Juma’at Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services symbolizes our humble acknowledgement of the divine role of the Almighty in all our affairs.

“This stems from the prevalence of faith and hope being the tenets of moral guidance and emotional stability that reinforce ethical behaviour and motivate us all to act honourably during operations,” he added.

Mr Oluyede said the Nigerian Army was commemorating 162 years of dedicated service, pointing out that it shows the deep-rooted patriotism and valor espoused by their forebears.

He said the church service was significant, saying the sanctuary was where they drew strength and had hope for tomorrow.

“So we have come here today to thank God for his mercy, and we expect that he will protect us in the future so that we can secure Nigeria better.

“And with that, we expect Nigeria to come out better and greater, and I would like to tell all Nigerians that they should have hope.

“The Nigerian army belongs to all Nigerians and security is for all, and expect them to give us their maximum support so that we can do our jobs better,” he said.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, alongside his wife, Oghogho Musa, and other top officers, attended the church service.

(NAN)