The Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to national security, professionalism and troop welfare through special religious activities held in commemoration of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
The command organised a Special Jumma’at Prayer on Friday, June 26, and an Interdenominational Church Service on Sunday, June 28, in Gusau, Zamfara State, bringing together senior military officers, soldiers, veterans, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), families of personnel and other invited guests to offer thanksgiving for the Army’s 163 years of dedicated service to Nigeria.
The religious observances formed part of nationwide activities marking NADCEL 2026, an annual event that celebrates the history, sacrifices and achievements of the Nigerian Army while providing an opportunity to honour fallen heroes and reaffirm the institution’s commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens.
Addressing worshippers during the Special Jumma’at Prayer, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General WB Idris, delivered the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, congratulating officers, soldiers and veterans on the Army’s 163rd anniversary.
The Chief of Army Staff described the occasion as a moment of gratitude to Almighty God for His continued guidance and protection over the Nigerian Army, noting that the anniversary also provides an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s remarkable journey, celebrate its accomplishments and renew its commitment to constitutional responsibilities.
He paid glowing tribute to officers and soldiers serving in various operational theatres across the country, commending their courage, resilience, professionalism and unwavering dedication despite the complex and evolving security environment.
According to the Chief of Army Staff, the sacrifices being made daily by troops in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality continue to reinforce the Nigerian Army’s resolve to guarantee peace, stability and national development.
Speaking on the theme of NADCEL 2026, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” the Army Chief urged personnel to remain steadfast in upholding the institution’s core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service, courage and professionalism.
He further acknowledged the sustained support of the Federal Government towards enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army through improved logistics, acquisition of modern equipment, enhanced training opportunities and increased investment in personnel welfare.
The Chief of Army Staff reiterated that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in confronting all threats to national security and will continue to work collaboratively with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure lasting peace across the country.
The Christian faithful also gathered on Sunday for an Interdenominational Church Service as part of the NADCEL 2026 activities. Representing the Theatre Commander, the Chief of Staff, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Brigadier General OA Obochi, delivered the Chief of Army Staff’s message, emphasizing the importance of faith, unity and collective responsibility in strengthening the Army’s operational effectiveness.
The message reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to leadership excellence and troop welfare through the implementation of the “Soldier First” concept, a strategic initiative aimed at improving the living and working conditions of personnel.
Under the initiative, priority continues to be given to improved accommodation, quality healthcare, enhanced education, professional training and comprehensive family support programmes designed to boost morale and strengthen operational readiness across the force.
The Chief of Army Staff also honoured the memories of fallen heroes, recognised wounded personnel and celebrated veterans whose sacrifices have continued to inspire generations of soldiers. He equally expressed appreciation to the families of serving personnel for their steadfast support and resilience, acknowledging their critical role in sustaining the morale of troops deployed across the country.
Special prayers were offered during both religious services for Nigeria, the Armed Forces, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, military personnel serving in various operational theatres and for enduring peace, unity and prosperity across the nation.
The commemorative services underscored the Nigerian Army’s enduring tradition of seeking divine guidance while reinforcing the values of sacrifice, patriotism, discipline and selfless service that have defined the institution for more than a century and a half.
As NADCEL 2026 celebrations continue across the country, the Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, reaffirmed its determination to sustain ongoing efforts aimed at protecting lives and property, strengthening civil-military cooperation and fostering harmonious relationships with communities across the North West.
The command emphasized that through professionalism, effective collaboration with stakeholders and sustained operational momentum, it remains committed to supporting the Nigerian Army’s mandate of securing the nation and creating an environment conducive to peace, stability and socio-economic development. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
