NADCEL 2026: Fallen Heroes’ Patriotism Continues to Inspire Troops, Says COAS

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said the patriotism, selfless service and courage of Nigeria’s fallen military heroes remain a source of inspiration to officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.

According to a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS made the remark on Sunday during the Interdenominational Church Service held at the All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026.

Represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the church service as one of the key events commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary. He said the occasion was dedicated to honouring the sacrifices, patriotism and unwavering commitment of fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in the service of the nation. He also commended troops serving across various theatres of operation and urged them to remain courageous, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

Delivering the sermon, the Director of Chaplain Services (Roman Catholic), Brigadier General Francis Maimagani, charged officers and soldiers to remain faithful in their service to God and humanity through their military calling. He encouraged personnel to remain steadfast and courageous in defending the nation’s unity and security.

The church service was attended by the Minister of Defence, represented by retired Major General Henry Wesley, representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs, Principal Staff Officers from the Defence and Service Headquarters, serving and retired senior military officers, personnel of the Nigerian Army, as well as members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association and the Soldiers’ Wives Association.