Nigerian Army Day 2025 celebrated with powerful message, renewed vision

Peculiar Adirika July 3, 2025

Nigerian Army Day 2025 marks 162 years of service with tributes, bold anti-terror stance, and renewed vision for transformation under COAS Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede

Nigerian Army Day 2025 has been marked with a strong reaffirmation of the Army’s role in defending the country against internal and external threats.

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, declared that terrorists have been denied the ability to disrupt Nigeria’s socio-cultural values or challenge its sovereignty.

Speaking at a press briefing to announce events lined up for the celebration, General Oluyede said the Army had once again proven its resilience and commitment.

He stressed that the military had faced numerous internal threats but had always risen to the occasion.

This year’s celebration is especially significant, marking 162 years since the formation of the Nigerian Army.

The first Nigerian Army Day Celebration was held in 1978, but the origin of the Army dates back to 1863.

At that time, Lieutenant Glover of the Royal Navy formed a local force called the Glover Hausas, composed of 18 northern Nigerian men.

The Army has since grown into a national institution of immense significance. General Oluyede said, “This year, the Nigerian Army is celebrating 162 years of service to our great nation, Nigeria. That is over a century and a half of selfless dedication to duty, patriotism, loyalty, and commitment to protecting our families, friends, compatriots, and, above all, safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of our beloved country.”

He noted that the Army had participated in both World Wars, successfully conducted the Nigerian Civil War, and led peacekeeping missions in West Africa and across the continent.

In modern times, the threat of terrorism and insecurity has tested the Army’s capacity.

We will not relent in ensuring the safety of the Nigerian people and the perpetuity of our democracy.

“Our nation has had to contend with enemies of peace and agents of chaos. Notwithstanding, the Nigerian Army has risen to the occasion to deny these terrorists the opportunity to disrupt our socio-cultural heritage or smear the sanctity of our sovereignty,” Oluyede stated.

The Nigerian Army Day 2025 is themed “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive.”

Oluyede explained that this focus reflects the Army’s new direction—placing soldiers at the heart of its strategy.

He said the Army continues to push for innovation and development in its operations, civil-military relations, and technological readiness.

These efforts, according to him, are designed to strengthen the capacity of soldiers to perform their duties effectively.

He added, “The Nigerian Army as an instrument of national unity, integration and development, has made significant strides in innovation, research and development, civil-military relations and technological advancement.”

Activities for the celebration have already begun with religious services. Events scheduled include school outreach visits, free medical missions, community development initiatives, and a literary competition.

On 4 July, civil-military projects will be commissioned across Kaduna State.

There will also be a golf tournament and charity outreach programme by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association.

On 5 July, a high-level lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy will precede the gala night.

The grand finale will take place on 6 July at Murtala Muhammed Square in Kaduna.

It will feature a military parade, an equipment display, and the presentation of commendation awards to deserving officers and soldiers.

General Oluyede concluded by reaffirming the Army’s dedication to peace, security, and democratic stability.