Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and prioritising the welfare of its personnel as it marked its 163rd anniversary with a special interdenominational church service in Sokoto.
The service, held on Sunday at Bartholomew Military Church (Protestant), Giginya Military Cantonment, was part of activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Delivering the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, said this year’s celebration, themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflects the Army’s renewed resolve to strengthen professionalism and service to the country.
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He described the theme as “a clarion call for reflection, renewal and rededication to the institution’s core values,” adding that the anniversary also provides an opportunity to appreciate God’s guidance, assess the Army’s achievements and honour personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice.
“The theme is a clarion call for reflection, renewal and rededication to the institution’s core values. It also provides us the opportunity to thank Almighty God for His continuous mercies and guidance while reflecting on our monumental accomplishments and honouring our fallen heroes,” Koughna said.
The GOC praised officers and soldiers for their courage, discipline, and professionalism in confronting the nation’s security challenges, assuring them of the Chief of Army Staff’s commitment to a “professional, combat-ready and welfare-driven force” under the “Soldier First” philosophy.
He also paid tribute to fallen personnel of the Division, describing their sacrifice as a source of inspiration for serving troops.
The service was officiated by the Acting Deputy Director, Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel RS Bwami, who led prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, and unity, as well as for the country’s leadership and troops deployed in various operational theatres.
The event was attended by formation commanders, staff officers, soldiers, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), and other guests.
The church service is one of several activities being held across the country to commemorate the Nigerian Army’s 163 years of service and sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.