Abuja, Nigeria – The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has underscored the indispensable role of soldiers’ loyalty in driving the transformation of the Nigerian Army. Speaking on Sunday, 29 June 2025, during an interdenominational church service at All Saints Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, General Oluyede described loyalty as a cornerstone for strengthening the institution.
The service marked a key event in the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, a period for the Army to reflect on the sacrifices, resilience, and steadfast commitment of its personnel in upholding their constitutional duties. General Oluyede noted that NADCEL symbolises the Army’s enduring dedication to Nigeria, embodying the patriotism and valour of both past and present soldiers across various operational theatres.
Despite numerous challenges faced in the line of duty, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty, secure its territorial integrity, and safeguard citizens’ rights. He outlined the Army’s ambitions to bolster operational effectiveness through enhanced training and the acquisition of critical combat enablers to improve mission efficiency.
General Oluyede commended the troops for their tenacity and dedication, paying tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. He urged serving personnel to remain resolute and courageous amid adversity, emphasising the Army’s commitment to fostering partnerships with stakeholders to promote a collaborative, multi-agency operational environment.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support, the COAS pledged the Nigerian Army’s continued loyalty to the Constitution, the Government, and the Nigerian people. He also extended appreciation to the National Assembly, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, fellow Service Chiefs, and heads of security agencies for their guidance and collaboration.
In his sermon, Lieutenant Colonel Martins Amuluche, Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), urged troops to embody loyalty in their duties, describing it as an expression of faithfulness to God and a testament to moral courage. He highlighted that a soldier’s loyalty could transform conduct and rekindle spiritual consciousness.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and his wife, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), alongside senior serving and retired officers and members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA). A special thanksgiving session was a highlight of the service.
Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, noted that NADCEL 2025 underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its mandate and its appreciation for the support of the Nigerian people and government.
