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.
society
A Renewed Momentum: How the Chief of Army Staff is Repositioning the Nigerian Army for Decisive Impact
*A Renewed Momentum: How the Chief of Army Staff is Repositioning the Nigerian Army for Decisive Impact*
By Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi.
In times of prolonged security challenges, it is easy—almost convenient—for critics to amplify setbacks while ignoring measurable progress. Yet, across Nigeria’s diverse and complex theatres of operation, a different story is steadily unfolding: one of resilience, tactical evolution, and renewed operational effectiveness under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS, Nigerian Army), Lt General Waidi Shaibu.
What we are witnessing today is not a media hype or propaganda—it is the outcome of deliberate reforms, improved coordination, and a reinvigorated fighting spirit within the Nigerian Army.
*A Clear Shift in Operational Effectiveness*
Recent developments across, but not limited to Benue, Plateau, Borno, Yobe, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kogi, Kwara, Edo, and the South-East underscore a critical truth: the Nigerian Army under General Waidi Shaibu is not on the back foot. On the contrary, it is increasingly proactive, intelligence-driven, and responsive.
From the successful rescue of kidnapped civilians in Benue, to the interception of armed militias in Plateau, and the neutralisation of insurgents in Borno, the pattern is consistent—swift response, precision engagement, and tangible outcomes.
These are not isolated victories. They reflect:
– Improved intelligence gathering and utilisation.
– Faster troop deployment and mobility.
– Enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
– Better morale and combat readiness among personnel.
Such coordination, especially in asymmetric warfare, does not happen by chance. It is a direct reflection of leadership at the top.
*The Chief of Army Staff: Lt General Waidi Shaibu Driving Reform and Results*
Since assuming office, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu has brought a renewed sense of urgency and clarity of purpose to military operations. His leadership style appears anchored on three critical pillars:
*1. Operational Aggression with Discipline*
Troops are no longer merely reacting—they are taking the fight to criminal elements. Whether dismantling terrorist camps in the North Central states or repelling coordinated attacks in the North-East, or engaging the Unknown Gunmen in the SouthEast, the Nigerian Army is demonstrating initiative and dominance.
*2. Intelligence-Led Warfare*
Modern conflicts are won as much with information as with firepower. The increasing success in intercepting logistics suppliers, uncovering IEDs, and preempting attacks shows a system that is becoming smarter, not just stronger.
*3. Joint Force Synergy*
The collaboration between the Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, DSS, and local security groups has significantly improved. Operations in the South Eastern part of the Country and other regions highlight a unified national security architecture—something that has long been advocated but is now visibly taking shape.
*Addressing the Culture of Criticism*
It must be said plainly: criticism is not inherently wrong in a democracy. However, what is deeply problematic is the pattern of uninformed, selective outrage that ignores context, dismisses progress, and undermines morale.
Those who hastily label every security incident as evidence of failure often:
– Ignore the complexity of asymmetric warfare.
– Overlook the sacrifices of frontline personnel.
– Fail to acknowledge the vast geographical and logistical challenges involved.
Worse still, some narratives are built on speculation, ethnic bias, or incomplete information—such as prematurely attributing crimes to specific groups without verification.
This does not help the nation. It weakens it.
*The Reality of the Battlefield*
Nigeria is not facing a conventional war. The threats are:
– Decentralised.
– Embedded within local communities.
– Adaptive and unpredictable.
From insurgents and bandits to kidnappers and economic saboteurs, the battlefield is fluid. Success, therefore, must be measured not by the absence of incidents, but by the capacity to respond, contain, and degrade threats over time.
By this standard, the Nigerian Army is making undeniable progress.
*The Human Element: Courage and Sacrifice*
Behind every operation report is a human story—soldiers who leave their families behind, who endure harsh terrains, who confront danger daily so that millions of Nigerians can live in relative safety.
Some pay the ultimate price.
To reduce their efforts to mere statistics or dismiss them outright is not just unfair—it is unjust.
*A Call for National Support*
The progress being recorded today must be sustained, and that requires more than military effort. It demands:
– Public cooperation with security agencies.
– Responsible media reporting.
– Community vigilance against criminal infiltration
– Constructive, informed criticism where necessary.
Most importantly, it requires national unity in purpose.
*Conclusion: A Force Worthy of Confidence*
The Nigerian Army, under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu is demonstrating that with the right direction, commitment, and strategy, meaningful progress is possible—even in the face of complex security challenges.
The gains may not always make screaming headlines, but they are real. They are measurable. And they are building momentum.
Rather than constant condemnation, what the Armed Forces deserve at this critical time is recognition, encouragement, and unwavering support.
Because beyond the noise of criticism lies a simple truth:
these men and women are standing between order and chaos—and they are holding the line.
This article was written by Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, an entrepreneur and an opinion moulder from Ibadan, Oyo State.
RESPONSIBLE RESPONSE TO ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE NIGERIAN ARMY
By Brigadier General D.G. James (Rtd.)
LAGOS — A recent publication by Sahara Reporters alleging systemic corruption, the creation of “mushroom units,” inflated budgets, and operational sabotage within the Nigerian Army has sparked concern across security and public circles.
But a retired senior officer, Brigadier General D.G. James, has pushed back strongly, describing the claims as unsubstantiated, misleading, and damaging to the integrity of an institution that has borne the brunt of Nigeria’s internal security battles for over a decade.
Having served for 30 years across the North-East, North-West, and Niger Delta, the retired general said his intervention is not in defence of any individual, but of the institution itself.
Questioning Anonymous Claims
At the heart of the controversial report is a single unnamed source described as a “top military strategist.” General James argues that such anonymity, without corroborating evidence, weakens the credibility of the allegations.
“Serious claims about budgets, personnel, and logistics must be backed by verifiable documents, not vague assertions,” he said, challenging the publication to provide concrete proof, including records or sworn statements.
“Mushroom Units” or Operational Necessity?
The report’s claim that under-strength units were created to inflate budgets was also dismissed as a misunderstanding of modern counter-insurgency operations.
According to the retired officer, Nigeria’s evolving security threats — from Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East to banditry in the North-West and separatist tensions in the South-East, have necessitated the creation of flexible task forces and new formations.
“Operating below full strength is not evidence of corruption,” he said. “It reflects battlefield realities , casualties, redeployments, and expansion under pressure.”
Payroll and Logistics Allegations
On claims of double-counting personnel for financial gain, General James described the scenario as “logistically implausible,” citing centralized payroll systems tied to biometric verification.
He further noted that accusations of fuel diversion ignore broader structural issues within Nigeria’s budgeting system.
“Funds approved on paper are often not fully released. By the time allocations reach operational units, commanders are forced to manage limited resources,” he explained.
Reaction to Benisheik Reference
General James also condemned the report’s reference to the death of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah during an ISWAP attack in Benisheik, calling it an inappropriate attempt to link battlefield losses to alleged corruption.
“Using the death of a fallen officer to support unverified claims is deeply disrespectful,” he said.
Broader Accountability
While not dismissing the possibility of corruption in defence spending, the retired general emphasized that responsibility cannot be placed solely on the military.
He pointed to the role of the National Assembly in budget approvals and civilian institutions in oversight and prosecution.
“If there are flaws in the system, they are systemic , not exclusive to the armed forces,” he noted.
Call for Transparent Investigation
General James called for a thorough and independent investigation into the allegations, urging authorities to rely on verifiable evidence rather than media narratives.
“Let every claim be examined , but fairly, transparently, and without prejudice,” he said.
Reaffirming his lifelong loyalty to the military, the retired officer urged Nigerians to approach such reports with caution.
“Our soldiers have made enormous sacrifices in defence of this country. Allegations alone should not overshadow those realities,” he stated.
IGP Closes PMF Commanders’ Training, Pledges Better Welfare, Tactical Capacity
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Wednesday closed a Squadron Commanders’ Training Programme at the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Training College in Ende-Hills, Nasarawa State, vowing to strengthen leadership and operational effectiveness across the force.
At the ceremony, the IGP inspected training facilities including the simulation ground and shooting range, where he personally took part in tactical exercises. He told cadets of the Nigeria Police Academy undergoing training at the college to remain disciplined and focused, stressing that their effectiveness on the field would depend on the quality of their training.
“Resilience, professionalism, and strict adherence to human rights principles must guide your conduct,” Disu said.
Addressing the graduating squadron commanders, he urged them to apply their newly acquired skills in leadership, operational discipline, and tactical efficiency. He described the PMF as a “highly disciplined, responsive, and reliable tactical arm” of the Nigeria Police Force.
The IGP further reaffirmed his commitment to improving officers’ welfare and boosting operational capacity, assuring that formations would be adequately equipped to tackle evolving security challenges nationwide.
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