The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has called on Nigerian Army (NA) personnel to pray fervently for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives defending Nigeria.
This appeal was made on Sunday, June 30, 2024, during an interdenominational church service held at All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant) in Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, as part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024.
In his goodwill message, General Lagbaja urged troops to also pray for the speedy physiological and psychological recovery of personnel who were injured during operations. He highlighted that these individuals have sacrificed greatly to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.
The theme for this year’s NADCEL, “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment,” underscores the Army’s commitment to promoting national unity, integration, and development.
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General Lagbaja emphasized the Army’s alignment with contemporary security and defence policies, reflecting its dedication to addressing modern security challenges.
General Lagbaja acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s global reputation, attributing operational successes to divine providence, as reflected in its motto: “Victory is from God Alone.” He praised the troops for their operational resilience and dedication, urging them to uphold the highest standards of service and discipline during the NADCEL 2024 celebrations.
The COAS expressed gratitude to President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continuous support.
He reaffirmed the Army’s loyalty to the Constitution, Government, and people of Nigeria. He also thanked the National Assembly, the Ministers of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, fellow Service Chiefs, and other security agencies for their collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
General Lagbaja called on all Nigerians to support and partner with the Nigerian Army in defeating the nation’s adversaries.
The NADCEL 2024 interdenominational church service was attended by high-ranking officers, including Principal Staff Officers from Army and Services Headquarters, the Commander of Army Headquarters Garrison, the National President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives’ Association, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja, members of the Association, Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives’ Association, serving and retired officers and their families, and several well-wishers. The event culminated with a Special Thanksgiving.
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