Odita Sunday 
NADCEL 2026: Fallen Heroes’ Patriotism Continues to Inspire Nigerian Army – COAS
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said the patriotism, courage and selfless service of Nigeria’s fallen heroes remain a constant source of inspiration to the Nigerian Army as it continues to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, General Shaibu stated this on Sunday during the Interdenominational Church Service held as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 at All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja.
Represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, the COAS described the church service as one of the major events commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
He said the celebration was dedicated to honouring the nation’s fallen heroes for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to national service.
General Shaibu commended officers and soldiers for their dedication and sacrifices in ongoing military operations across the country and urged them to remain courageous, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
Earlier, the Director, Chaplain Services Roman Catholic, Brigadier General Francis Maimagani, urged troops to serve God and humanity faithfully through their calling as military personnel.
He also charged officers and soldiers to remain steadfast, courageous and committed to the discharge of their statutory responsibilities in defence of the nation.
The church service was attended by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), represented by Major General Henry Wesley (retd), representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Principal Staff Officers from the Defence and Services Headquarters, serving and retired senior military officers, officers and soldiers, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), the Soldiers’ Wives Association and other invited guests.
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