, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has delivered a powerful message to insurgents, terrorists, and other){kind=link}
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has delivered a powerful message to insurgents, terrorists, and other enemies of the Nigerian state, assuring them that their defeat is inevitable and their mission doomed to fail.
General Oluyede made this declaration during an Interdenominational Church Service held in Abuja on Sunday to commemorate the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025.
The event, according to him, serves not only as a moment of reflection but also a solemn reminder of the selfless sacrifices made by the men and women of the Nigerian Army over the past 162 years.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army‘s unwavering commitment to protecting the sovereignty of the nation, securing its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights and freedoms of all Nigerian citizens.
He emphasized that the Army remains resolute in its mission to eradicate terrorism and will continue to implement effective counter-terrorism strategies in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
“To those who aim to threaten our collective peace, violate our freedom, and undermine our democracy, be assured—your failure is certain,” the Army Chief declared. “Your boast holds no weight. The Nigerian Army will remain relentless in safeguarding our heritage, defending our liberty, and preserving national unity.”
He further noted that the Nigerian Army remains deeply rooted in its core values and will continue to uphold its guiding motto: “Victory is from God alone.”
Highlighting the spiritual essence of NADCEL, General Oluyede explained that the annual tradition of beginning the celebrations with Juma’at prayers and an interdenominational church service is symbolic. It represents the Army’s humble acknowledgement of the divine role of the Almighty in the affairs of men and the conduct of military operations.
“This tradition stems from our recognition that faith and hope are essential pillars of moral guidance and emotional stability. These values shape our ethical conduct and inspire us to act with honour and integrity in all operations,” he added.
Reflecting on the Army’s legacy, Oluyede paid tribute to fallen heroes who laid down their lives in defence of the nation. He also acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by their families, who continue to endure the pain of loss in service to the country.
“The Nigerian Army today celebrates 162 years of devoted and courageous service to the nation. This historic milestone speaks to the legacy of patriotism, resilience, and gallantry passed down to us by our predecessors,” he said.
Speaking on the significance of the church service, the COAS remarked, “This sanctuary is where we find strength and renew our hope for the future. We are here to thank God for his continued mercy and protection and to pray for His guidance in the journey ahead.”
He concluded by calling on all Nigerians to continue supporting the Army and other security agencies in their collective mission to secure the country.
“The Nigerian Army is for all Nigerians. Security is a shared responsibility, and we urge every citizen to give us their full cooperation. With unity and divine help, Nigeria will emerge stronger and greater,” he said.