The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said the Nigerian Army is recording significant achievements in the fight against insecurity in all parts of the country.
The COAS stated this on Sunday in his remarks at an inter-denominational Church Service as part of the activities lined up for the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 (NADCEL).
Represented by the commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, (AHQGARR), Maj. Gen. Maj. Gen. William Maxwell Dangana, he noted that the succeses were being achieved despite the complex nature of the security challenges.
He said, “Today, our troops remain actively engaged in operations aimed at combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening the peace and stability of our nation.
“Despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation. Through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralized, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities.”
According to Shaibu, these successes have been achieved through the collective efforts of our personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
He said for 163 years, the Nigerian Army has remained a symbol of patriotism, resilience, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to national service.
“Throughout its illustrious history, the Army has continued to adapt to emerging security challenges while remaining steadfast in its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.
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.
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.