society
CELEBRATING THE NIGERIAN ARMY @ 162: A SYMBOL OF SACRIFICE, RESILIENCE AND NATIONAL UNITY
CELEBRATING THE NIGERIAN ARMY @ 162: A SYMBOL OF SACRIFICE, RESILIENCE AND NATIONAL UNITY
By Brigadier General SK Usman (rtd) mni fnipr fspsp
Every July, the Nigerian Army marks another milestone in its remarkable history. This year, as we commemorate Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, we celebrate an institution that has stood as a pillar of national unity, courage and nationhood for 162 years. The Nigerian Army Day Celebration, first held in 1978, is observed annually to commemorate the establishment of the Nigerian Army and marks the day the first shot was fired at Garkem Town, present-day Cross River State, signifying the commencement of Nigeria’s Civil War. This celebration also provides an opportunity to recognise and honour the heroic contributions of our officers and soldiers.
From its humble beginnings in 1863 with the formation of the Glover Hausas, the Nigerian Army has evolved into a formidable and professional force, standing guard over our sovereignty, defending our territorial integrity and advancing our national interest across theatres of operation at home and abroad. This marks over a century and a half of selfless dedication to duty, patriotism, loyalty and commitment to protecting our families, friends, compatriots and above all, safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our beloved country. The Nigerian Army has consistently risen to meet the challenges faced by successive generations. From its early involvement in the two World Wars, Nigerian soldiers have demonstrated courage and resilience.
Before the Nigerian Civil War, the Army not only safeguarded national unity but also extended its commitment to peace and stability beyond Nigeria’s borders. Nigerian troops played a vital role in the United Nations peacekeeping operation in the Congo in the early 1960s, one of the earliest and most complex missions of its kind. Since then, Nigeria has actively participated in numerous UN peacekeeping missions across the globe, becoming the fourth-largest troop-contributing nation to the United Nations at its peak. In addition to its UN commitments, the Nigerian Army has undertaken peacekeeping and peace enforcement missions under the auspices of the defunct Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU), as well as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), thus bringing peace and democratic governance in some West African States, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting regional and continental peace and stability.
Therefore, to understand the essence of this celebration is to appreciate the weight of sacrifices that the gallant officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army have borne over time. Their journey has not been paved with comfort. It is a legacy carved in hardship, blood, sweat, discipline and valour for over a century. Through civil war, peace enforcement missions, counterinsurgency operations and support to civil authority, the Army has remained steadfast, often operating under difficult and austere conditions, yet never relenting in its devotion and duty to the nation.
At a time when Nigeria faces a multitude of complex and asymmetric security threats, the Nigerian Army has continued to rise to the challenge. It is currently engaged in several internal security operations across the six geopolitical zones of the country, along with other services and security agencies. In the Northeast, Operation HADIN KAI has continued to make significant progress against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, restoring peace and security in areas once controlled by insurgents. In the Northwest and North Central regions, Operations HADARIN DAJI, WHIRL PUNCH and WHIRL STROKE have consistently taken the battle to bandits, kidnappers and criminal gangs, dismantling camps, rescuing abductees, and restoring confidence in affected communities. In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE has protected critical oil infrastructure and curtailed illegal oil bunkering and piracy, thereby safeguarding the nation’s economic lifeline. In the Southeast and Southwest, Operation UDOKA, Exercises GOLDEN DAWN and STILL WATERS have continued to check rising threats of violent separatism, armed robbery and cultism, in collaboration with sister security agencies. Furthermore, the Nigerian Army remain steadfast in its efforts to ensure the security of the Nigerian people and the perpetuity of our democracy.
Beyond its core duty of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, the Nigerian Army plays an important role in aid to civil authority and national development. From disaster response—such as the recent support to flood-affected communities in Maiduguri—to nation-building initiatives, the Army remains actively engaged in improving the lives of Nigerians. Through its Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities, it has constructed and rehabilitated roads, classrooms, health clinics and water projects across the country. The Army also provides educational materials to schools, conducts medical outreach programmes, and supports literacy and vocational development for youth and women in rural and conflict-affected areas. These initiatives serve not only to win hearts and minds but to demonstrate the Army’s deep commitment to national development, progress and human security.
These successes are not coincidental. They are the result of deliberate reforms, strategic foresight, and tenacious commitment by the leadership of the Nigerian Army, currently under the command of the seasoned Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, mni NAM. Commendably, the theme of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2025, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive,” was carefully selected as it espouses the Army’s renewed drive to transform the Army by placing the soldiers first.
As an instrument of national unity, integration and development, the Nigerian Army has made significant strides in innovation, research and development, civil-military relations, and technological advancement to better equip the soldier to carry out his constitutional responsibilities. Despite enormous constraints, ranging from budgetary limitations, overstretch, evolving threats and public misunderstanding, the Nigerian Army continues to wax stronger, reforming itself through enhanced training, operational innovation and welfare-driven leadership. It is transforming into a modern, agile and joint-capable force, one that reflects Nigeria’s aspirations in a volatile and dynamic security environment.
At the heart of this transformation is the Nigerian soldier, the courageous men and women who don the Army uniform, driven not by personal gain but by duty, loyalty, honour and patriotism. They leave behind the warmth of family and the promise of comfort to serve in harsh terrain and hostile conditions. Their reward is not always recognition, but they serve anyway. The Nigerian soldier represents the best of us: resilient, selfless and loyal to the very end. It is this silent dignity and unmatched devotion that make the Army not only a fighting force but a moral compass for national unity and integrity, thus worthy of celebrating.
As the Army celebrate its day this year, I congratulate them and urge all personnel of the Nigerian Army to remain resilient, disciplined and more committed than ever before. Nigerians respect and look up to the military as a symbol of national pride and must continue to live up to that honour. For the few bad eggs within the system, this is the time to buckle up, retrace your steps, or ship out; there is no room for mediocrity, disloyalty, or unprofessional conduct in the Army. To those aspiring to join this noble profession, understand that being a soldier is not a tea party; it is a sacred calling that demands toughness, integrity, courage and sacrifice.
Yet, even as we celebrate these gallant achievements, we must confront the reality of misinformation, public cynicism and unwarranted criticism that often clouds public perception of the military. Too often, the actions and intentions of the Nigerian Army are misunderstood, politicised, or misrepresented, even by those who owe their safety and liberty to its sacrifices. This is not only unfair, it is dangerous. When a nation maligns its protectors, it weakens its foundation. The Nigerian Army is not perfect, no institution is, but it is consistently loyal, committed and dependable. It deserves more than suspicion and cynicism. It deserves our support, trust and appreciation.
The government, on its part, must continue to equip, fund and enhance the welfare of the Army. Our political leadership must avoid creating unnecessary conflicts or internal friction that complicate national security. Instead, they must embrace dialogue, diplomacy and strategic communication as tools for conflict prevention and resolution, thereby reducing the burden on military engagement and allowing the Army to focus on core security missions.
To the Nigerian people, I make this earnest appeal: respect, support and celebrate your Army. This institution belongs to us all. When we collectively or individually honour it, we are affirming our commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability and peace. Criticism, when necessary, should be constructive, not toxic. Let us uplift the morale of our troops through public solidarity and patriotic engagement. Let us tell our children and grandchildren not only the stories of Nigeria’s challenges but also the stories of courage, resilience, sacrifices and triumph represented by the Nigerian soldier.
The Nigerian Army remains the most reliable pillar in our national architecture. It has preserved our sovereignty, upheld our democracy and provided stability when institutions wavered. It is not just the pride of Nigeria; it is a model of endurance, discipline and sacrifice. As it celebrates 162 years of existence, it deserves more than fleeting praise. It deserves lasting gratitude from us all. The Nigerian Army Day Celebration provides an opportunity to showcase its achievements and deepen collaboration with various stakeholders towards enhancing peace, security and the defence of national values. It is for this reason that several activities have been lined up for this year’s celebration.
These include the traditional Juma’at Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services, symbolising the humble acknowledgement of the Nigerian Army motto, “Victory is from God Alone”. On Friday, July 4, 2025, there will be the commissioning of numerous civil-military cooperation projects in different locations within Kaduna State, a golf tournament, a free medical outreach programme, and the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA)’s charity outreach programmes. On the same day, public speaking engagements and visits to selected secondary schools in all Nigerian Army formations will take place.
On Saturday, July 5, 2025, there will be a lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, to deliberate on topical issues, followed by the award ceremony for the 2nd COAS Annual Literary Competition. In the evening of the same day, a Gala Night with officers and soldiers will be held at Umaru Musa Yar’adua Conference Centre, Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna. The event will be rounded off with the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2025 Grand Finale on July 6, 2025, featuring a military parade, equipment display and the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award to deserving personnel. One other key highlight of that day is also a Research, Development, and Innovation Exhibition, which will be held at Murtala Square to showcase the Nigerian Army’s remarkable strides in science, technology, and innovation, underscoring its transformation into a modern, adaptive, and forward-looking force.
To the gallant officers, men and women of the Nigerian Army, I salute you. You are our shield, our pride, and the living proof that service to the nation is noble and the highest form of patriotism. May your sacrifices never be in vain, and may the nation you defend stand eternally proud of your noble calling.
Happy NADCEL 2025 @ 162! Long live the Nigerian Army! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
The writer is a former Director of Army Public Relations and Spokesman for the Nigerian Army, a security and strategic communication expert. He can be reached on his social media handles @skusman.
Journalists for Good Governance Shines Searchlight on Local Government Administration
…Calls for Accountability in Nigeria’s Grassroots Governance
LAGOS, Nigeria — A civil society coalition known as Journalists for Good Governance(JGG) has intensified public debate on transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s local government system, urging media professionals, civil society actors, and citizens to hold grassroots leaders accountable.
Speaking an event in Lagos recently, the acting chairman of the society, Comrade Bunmi Obarotimi said that despite reforms such as the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling granting financial autonomy to all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs), systemic challenges continues to hinder effective service delivery and responsible stewardship of public funds.
“Local governments are the closest tier of government to the people — yet too often they remain the least transparent. Without civic oversight and vibrant media, promises of autonomy ring hollow.” the acting chairman said.
The Journalist for Good Governance emphasised crucial roles that journalists can play in uncovering discrepancies in council spending, flagging poor service delivery, and educating citizens on their rights. Their call comes amid wider efforts by media and civic organisations to bridge accountability gaps. The civil society initiatives had previously launched monitoring campaigns to track local government expenditures and have been quietly advocating for transparency in how public money is deployed.
The leaders of the Journalists for Good Governance (JGG) highlighted the importance of physical assessment and citizens engagement on projects to boost people’s confidence, urging local councils to adopt open data platforms and proactive information dissemination in compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. Experts say the majority of LGAs currently lack operational websites or digital portals, further limiting public scrutiny.
The Journalists for Good Governance initiative aligns with sustained advocacy by civil society groups and governance experts calling for a collective approach to strengthening democratic accountability, and has decided to engage in critical and holistic assessments of how Local Governments is being run and the impact and quality of projects they embark-on and to address deficits in transparency and public trust.
Meanwhile, some state governments have signalled support for improved community engagement. In Lagos State, authorities reiterated a commitment to enhancing community media platforms as vehicles for civic participation and accountability at the grassroots level.
The renewed spotlight on local government administration has reignited public debate over fiscal responsibility and priorities. Controversies such as the widely criticised Adamawa council chairmen’s wives trip to Istanbul — which drew public outrage for perceived misuse of public funds — underscore why watchdog groups say stronger oversight mechanisms are urgently needed at the grassroots.
Citizens and activists have welcomed the journalists’ initiative, calling for sustained media engagement that goes beyond headlines to influence policy and accountability reform.
The civic rights advocates note that real change will require robust legal frameworks, a free press, and empowered communities equipped to demand transparency at every level of governance.
As Journalists for Good Governance mobilises its members, the coming months are likely to see heightened media attention on grassroots administration — from council budgets and service delivery to the enforcement of public information laws and digital transparency initiatives.
Good Politics Or Just Power? Two Years After The Elections
Two years after the last general election, Nigerians are justified in asking a direct question: is our democracy stronger today than it was then? Democracy is not measured by how many offices a party controls or how loudly politicians speak. It is measured by integrity, accountability, and the lived experience of the people. Good Politics demands more than victory at the polls; it demands moral leadership and visible progress in the lives of citizens.
The debate over amendments to the Electoral Act should have provided an opportunity to deepen transparency and strengthen public confidence. Instead, hesitation to fully embrace reforms that safeguard credible vote transmission and accountability has fueled doubt. In a nation where electoral credibility remains fragile, any reluctance to reinforce safeguards sends the wrong signal. Good Politics stands firmly for processes that are open, fair, and beyond suspicion.
The party in power commands significant authority across the federation. With control of the presidency, many state governments, a strong presence in the National Assembly, and influence at local levels, there should be no anxiety about reforms that ensure free and fair elections. Confidence in leadership is demonstrated not by dominance, but by a willingness to subject power to scrutiny. Politics rooted in the omoluabi ethos embraces fairness, transparency, and responsibility, even when inconvenient.
This is the standard long associated with Awolowo, whose politics emphasized discipline, social welfare, education, and institutional strength. His vision was not merely about holding office, but about transforming society through principled governance. Good Politics follows that tradition. It rejects manipulation, arrogance, and the concentration of power without accountability. It insists that authority must serve the people, not itself.
Beyond electoral reforms, democracy must deliver tangible relief. Across the country, households struggle with rising prices and shrinking purchasing power. Small businesses are burdened by escalating costs. Young people search for opportunities that remain scarce. When economic hardship deepens, democracy feels abstract. Good Politics recognizes that political legitimacy is reinforced when citizens can see and feel the benefits of governance.
The concentration of power within a single political structure should translate into coordinated reform and measurable development. When it does not, questions naturally arise. Democracy weakens when dominance replaces performance. It weakens when loyalty to party eclipses loyalty to principle. The omoluabi tradition teaches that character defines leadership. Without character, authority becomes hollow.
A healthy democracy requires credible elections and compassionate governance. It requires leaders who understand that politics is a moral enterprise. Two years into this administration, many Nigerians remain uncertain about the direction of both our democratic processes and their daily welfare. If democracy is to endure, it must reflect Good Politics: fairness in competition, integrity in conduct, and compassion in governance. Anything less falls short of the standard that our history and our values demand.
GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE COMMENDS STATE-FEDERAL COLLABORATION IN ZAMFARA
The Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative (GCGMSI) has commended the Zamfara State Government for its decisive contribution to security operations through the donation of newly acquired armoured personnel carriers (APCs), surveillance drones, and other critical operational equipment to troops and security agencies in the state.
This commendation was contained in a statement signed by the Convener of the GCGMSI, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, and made available to the press.
The equipment was formally commissioned on Wednesday, February 18, by the Grand Patron of the GCGMSI and Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR (rtd.), in a ceremony at the Government House, Gusau. The event was attended by senior military officers, heads of security agencies, and top officials of the Zamfara State Government.
The GCGMSI, in its statement, hailed the donation as a “transformative and timely intervention” that aligns perfectly with its core objective of advocating for and supporting tangible measures that enhance the operational capacity and welfare of Nigeria’s security forces. The Initiative praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration for moving beyond rhetoric to actionable, material support, describing the move as a “blueprint for state-level collaboration in national security.”
“The provision of these assets by the Zamfara State Government is a testament to visionary leadership and a profound commitment to the peace and stability of its people,” the GCGMSI statement read. “It represents the exact kind of synergistic partnership between state and federal authorities that the GCGMSI champions. This initiative will significantly close operational gaps, boost the confidence of our gallant troops, and send a strong message to criminal elements.”
Speaking at the commissioning, General Musa emphasized that sustained collaboration is indispensable in confronting the nation’s evolving security challenges. He specifically commended Governor Lawal for his proactive support.
“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated exemplary leadership and an unwavering dedication to the security of Zamfara State,” the Defence Minister stated. “The provision of these armoured vehicles, surveillance drones, and other operational equipment will undoubtedly boost the morale and operational effectiveness of our troops and other security agencies on the ground. This is a commendable effort that should be emulated by others.”
The newly commissioned assets, which include multiple APCs and advanced surveillance drones, are expected to dramatically enhance the mobility, protection, intelligence-gathering, and rapid response capabilities of security forces, particularly in the state’s remote and difficult terrains where anti-banditry operations are ongoing.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to being a reliable partner in the security architecture. He urged security agencies to deploy the new resources responsibly and effectively to safeguard lives and property.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, reaffirmed its commitment to continuing and deepening such partnerships with state governments across the nation to strengthen coordination and resource allocation in the collective fight against insecurity.
The GCGMSI concluded its statement by urging other state governments to take a cue from Zamfara’s “bold and pragmatic” approach, affirming that such concrete support is vital for achieving lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
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