The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to eradicate terrorism and secure the nation through robust counter-terrorism operations.

Speaking at the Interdenominational Church Service held in Abuja on Sunday to commemorate the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), Gen. Oluyede issued a stern warning to terrorists and enemies of the state, declaring that their defeat is inevitable and their threats meaningless.

He stressed that the Army remains unwavering in its mission to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty, safeguard its territorial integrity, and defend the rights of all citizens. 

He said, “We shall never depart from our honour which is tied to our faith and we will continue to live true to the Nigerian Army motto, “Victory is from God Alone.”

“To all those who seek to disrupt the sanctity of our freedom, our heritage of liberty and our enduring democracy, be assured that your failure is certain and your boast lacks value. 

“The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to foster a joint and multi-agency environment to effectively deliver our mandate of securing our beloved nation.”

The COAS said the tradition of NADCEL provided an opportunity to commemorate the army’s establishment and also reflect on the sacrifices, resilience and selfless commitment of its officers and soldiers in the service to the nation.

According to him, it is also a time to remember and honour our brave heroes who fell in the line of duty as well as our dear families that are subjected to bearing our absence, loss and scars of service. 

“The time-honoured tradition of commencing the Nigerian Army Day Celebration schedule of events with the Jumat Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services symbolizes our humble acknowledgement of the divine role of the Almighty in all our affairs. 

“This stems from the prevalence of faith and hope being the tenets of moral guidance and emotional stability that reinforces ethical behaviour and motivates us all to act honourably during operations” he added.

Oluyede said the Nigerian army was commemorating 162 years of dedicated service, saying it shows the deep-rooted patriotism and valor espoused by their forebears. 

He said the church service was significant, saying the sanctuary was where they drew strength and have hope for tomorrow.

“So we have come here today to thank God for his mercy and we expect that he will protect us in the future so that we can secure Nigeria better.

“And with that, we expect Nigeria to come out better and greater and I would like to tell all Nigerians that they should have hope. 

“The Nigerian army belongs to all Nigerians and security is for all and expect them to give us their maximum support so that we can do our jobs better,” he said.

In his sermon, the Acting Director, Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lt.-Col. Martins Amuluche, emphasised the importance of loyalty, urging soldiers to remain committed to God, upholding their faith and values.

Amuluche also urged them to remain dedicated to the Nigerian army while serving the country with integrity and patriotism.

He also highlighted the need for the Army to prioritise the welfare of its soldiers, suggesting that a transformed army begins with caring for its personnel.