Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, and several other prominent national leaders joined senior military officers, government officials, and distinguished guests to commemorate this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration, paying tribute to the sacrifices and unwavering commitment of the nation’s soldiers.
The annual event, one of the most significant occasions in Nigeria’s military calendar, brought together serving and retired military personnel, political leaders, traditional rulers, diplomats, and members of the public to celebrate the courage, professionalism, and contributions of the Nigerian Army to national peace, unity, and security.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on the Army’s long history of service to the country, acknowledging its role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, supporting civil authorities during emergencies, and participating in peacekeeping operations across Africa and beyond.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima praised officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their resilience and patriotism in the face of increasingly complex security challenges confronting the country.
He commended members of the armed forces for their sacrifices in combating insurgency, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminal activity that continue to threaten national stability.
According to the Vice President, the Federal Government remains fully committed to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Armed Forces through improved funding, acquisition of modern military equipment, enhanced intelligence capabilities, and continuous investment in the welfare of military personnel.
He assured serving officers and soldiers that their dedication and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed, emphasizing that national security remains one of the government’s highest priorities.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also paid glowing tribute to members of the Nigerian Army, describing them as patriotic men and women who have consistently demonstrated courage in defending the country during both internal and external security operations.
Drawing from his own military background, Obasanjo encouraged officers and soldiers to remain committed to professionalism, discipline, integrity, and respect for constitutional authority while carrying out their responsibilities.
He noted that a strong, professional military remains indispensable to national development, political stability, and the protection of democratic institutions.
Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon equally used the occasion to honour the sacrifices made by generations of Nigerian soldiers, particularly those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces by promoting national unity, patriotism, and cooperation with security agencies in addressing contemporary security challenges.
Gowon stressed that national security is a collective responsibility requiring collaboration between government institutions, security agencies, community leaders, and ordinary citizens.
The Chief of Army Staff, while addressing the gathering, highlighted some of the Nigerian Army’s recent operational achievements across various theatres of operation.
He commended officers and personnel for their professionalism, dedication, and determination despite the difficult circumstances under which many continue to serve.
According to the Army leadership, ongoing military operations have continued to record progress against criminal elements in different parts of the country through coordinated efforts involving other branches of the armed forces and security agencies.
The Chief of Army Staff also reiterated the Army’s commitment to improving operational efficiency through continuous training, technological advancement, intelligence-driven operations, and investment in personnel welfare.
He emphasized that modern security threats require constant adaptation, innovation, and stronger collaboration with local communities and international partners.
The Army Day celebration featured several colourful activities, including military parades, tactical demonstrations, exhibitions of military equipment, cultural performances, and awards presented to deserving officers and soldiers for exemplary service.
Guests were also treated to displays showcasing the evolution of the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities, technological advancements, and contributions to regional peacekeeping missions under the African Union and the United Nations.
Families of fallen heroes were specially recognised during the ceremony, with emotional tributes paid to officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the nation.
Government officials acknowledged the immense contributions of military families, describing their resilience and support as essential to the effectiveness of the armed forces.
Political leaders present at the celebration emphasized the importance of continued investment in defence infrastructure, personnel development, and veterans’ welfare.
They noted that maintaining a highly motivated and well-equipped military remains essential for addressing Nigeria’s evolving security environment.
Security experts attending the event observed that the Nigerian Army continues to play a central role in safeguarding the country’s democratic institutions while responding to a wide range of security threats across different regions.
They argued that sustained modernization efforts, enhanced intelligence gathering, and improved civil-military relations will remain critical to achieving long-term national security objectives.
The celebration also served as an opportunity to strengthen public appreciation for the sacrifices made daily by members of the armed forces, many of whom operate under challenging and often dangerous conditions to protect lives and property.
As the ceremony concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army in its constitutional responsibilities while expressing optimism that continued collaboration between government, security agencies, and citizens would contribute to a safer and more peaceful Nigeria.
This year’s Army Day celebration ultimately served as both a tribute to the bravery of Nigerian soldiers and a reminder of the vital role the armed forces continue to play in preserving national unity, defending sovereignty, and promoting peace across the country.
