Odita Sunday 
NADCEL 2026: Operation FANSAN YAMMA Reaffirms Commitment To National Security Through Special Prayer Services In Gusau
By Odita Sunday
As the Nigerian Army commemorates 163 years of service to the nation, the Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), has reaffirmed its commitment to national security and troop welfare through special religious activities held in Gusau, Zamfara State, under the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
The celebration featured a Special Jumma’at Prayer held on Friday, 26 June and an Interdenominational Church Service on Sunday, 28 June 2026, bringing together officers, soldiers, veterans, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), and invited guests in thanksgiving for the Nigerian Army’s 163 years of dedicated service to Nigeria.
During the Jumma’at prayer, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General WB Idris, delivered the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, congratulating officers, soldiers and veterans on the Army’s anniversary.
According to Aliyu Danja
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA
28 June 2026, the occasion served as a moment to appreciate God for His faithfulness, reflect on the Nigerian Army’s journey, honour fallen heroes and renew commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff commended personnel serving in different theatres of operation for their courage, sacrifice and professionalism despite prevailing security challenges.
Speaking on the theme of NADCEL 2026, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” the Chief of Army Staff called for renewed dedication to the Army’s constitutional responsibilities and core values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.
He also acknowledged the Federal Government’s support toward strengthening operational capabilities and improving the welfare of personnel, while reaffirming the Army’s determination to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other threats to national security.
At the Interdenominational Church Service, Major General WB Idris was represented by the Chief of Staff, OPFY, Brigadier General OA Obochi, who delivered the Chief of Army Staff’s message to Christian faithful.
The message highlighted the Nigerian Army’s focus on leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and troop welfare through the “Soldier First” concept, which prioritises improved accommodation, healthcare, training, education and family support for personnel.
The Chief of Army Staff also paid tribute to fallen heroes, wounded personnel, veterans and families of serving soldiers for their sacrifices and continued contributions to national security.
The religious observances formed part of nationwide activities marking NADCEL 2026 and underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to service, national unity and development.
The Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA reiterated its resolve to remain steadfast in protecting the nation while strengthening relationships with communities across its area of operation.
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