By Helen Udo.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has declared that the patriotism, courage, and selfless sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes remain a lasting source of inspiration to the Nigerian Army.
The COAS made the remarks during the Interdenominational Church Service marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 at All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, on Sunday, 28 June 2026.
The disclosure was made in a statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, on Sunday, 28 June 2026, in Abuja.
Represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, the COAS described the church service as one of the key activities commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
He noted that the occasion was dedicated to honouring the nation’s fallen heroes, celebrating their sacrifices, and recognising their unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commended officers and soldiers for their dedication and resilience, urging them to remain courageous, disciplined, and professional while carrying out operations across the country.
In his sermon, the Director of Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), Brigadier General Francis Maimagani, encouraged troops to faithfully serve God and humanity through their military calling and remain steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
The church service attracted top government and military officials, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, represented by Major General Henry Wesley (Rtd), representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, senior serving and retired officers, as well as members of NAOWA and the Soldiers Wives Association.
The NADCEL 2026 service reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to honouring its heroes, strengthening unity, and inspiring personnel to continue serving the nation with unwavering patriotism, sacrifice, and professionalism.
