The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu has hailed the operational achievements of troops across theatres of operation while reaffirming commitment to their welfare and professional development.

Mr Shaibu gave the assurance in his goodwill message at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 interdenominational church service on Sunday in Abuja.

He was represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Maxwell Dangana.

The COAS said troops had continued to record notable successes in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities through courage, professionalism and collaboration with sister services and other security agencies.

According to him, the achievements have led to the neutralisation of criminals, dismantling of terrorist enclaves, the rescue of kidnapped victims and restoration of normalcy in many affected communities.

Mr Shaibu said his command philosophy, anchored on the “Soldier First” culture, placed a premium on leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and the welfare of personnel.

He said the Nigerian Army had continued to improve accommodation, healthcare, training opportunities and educational support to enable officers and soldiers to serve with dignity, confidence and pride.

The army chief said the ongoing expansion of the army, approved by President Bola Tinubu and involving increased recruitment, was aimed at strengthening its operational capacity to tackle emerging security threats.

He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of Nigeria and expressed appreciation to wounded personnel, veterans, and the families of serving soldiers for their enduring support and resilience.

Mr Shaibu also thanked President Tinubu for his continued support toward enhancing the operational capabilities and welfare of the Armed Forces.

He urged personnel to remain committed to the core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism, while praying for peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria.

In a sermon, the Director of Chaplaincy (Roman Catholic), Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Anthony Maimagani described military service as a divine calling to serve God, humanity and the nation through courage, justice and sacrifice.

Mr Maimagani urged officers and soldiers to uphold the dignity of every Nigerian, saying that protecting innocent citizens was both a constitutional responsibility and a service to God.

He encouraged troops to remain steadfast in the face of prevailing security challenges and to continue demonstrating courage, humility, integrity and compassion in the discharge of their duties.

The chaplain prayed for God’s protection over the Armed Forces and the nation, expressing hope for lasting peace, justice and unity in Nigeria.

The interdenominational church service, held across units and formations nationwide, is part of the activities lined up to mark the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army, known as NADCEL 2026.

The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, was represented by his Special Adviser, retired Maj.-Gen. Henry Wesley, while the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, was represented by the Chief of Defence Communication, Maj.-Gen. Kennedy Osemwegie.

The activities commenced on Friday with a news conference by the COAS, followed by the Jumaat service.

The grand finale of NADCEL 2026 will be held in Port Harcourt, featuring a series of activities, including the annual lecture, media parley, conference, and exhibition.

(NAN)