By Abdul Lauya
The Nigerian Army has announced its 2025 Day Celebration activities to honour 162 years of national service, patriotism, and sacrifice.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, made the announcement during a press briefing at Army Headquarters on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
Oluyede emphasized the historic and symbolic significance of July 6, marking the date the first shot of the Nigerian Civil War was fired in Garkem, Cross River State.
The Army Day, first celebrated in 1978, has since evolved into an annual occasion to reflect on the Army’s legacy and its contributions to Nigeria’s security and unity.
Tracing the Army’s roots to the 1863 formation of the “Glover Hausas,” Oluyede highlighted its expansion through the World Wars, Civil War, and peacekeeping missions across Africa.
He acknowledged the Army’s ongoing role in combating terrorism and internal security challenges that threaten national stability.
The Army, he said, remains resolute in protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and deepening democratic resilience through its multifaceted operations.
This year’s theme, “Developing the Soldier First Concept,” underscores a renewed focus on welfare, capacity building and the Army’s transformation agenda.
Oluyede noted that technological innovation, civil-military relations, and research and development are being prioritized to empower troops for modern warfare and civic responsibilities.
The celebration began with religious observances and will continue with civil-military projects, a golf tournament, charity programmes, school visits and lectures.
Key events include the commissioning of projects across Kaduna State on July 4 and a major lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy on July 5.
Also scheduled are an awards ceremony for literary excellence and a Gala Night for officers and soldiers to foster esprit de corps.
The weeklong events will climax on July 6 with a grand military parade, equipment exhibition and presentation of COAS Commendation Awards.
The Chief of Army Staff commended the media for its vital partnership in advancing public awareness and operational transparency.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to collaboration with the press, other security stakeholders, and citizens in upholding national peace and development.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration serves as both a moment of reflection and a platform for reinforcing the Army’s evolving role in a dynamic security landscape.
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