The Nigeria Army on Monday unveiled a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing national security.
The activities aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army, include a public dialogue on the Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment,”
The dialogue is aimed to underscore the importance of transformation for combat readiness and national security.
The Army said it is also planning engagements at secondary schools nationwide aimed at promoting patriotism and selfless service.
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” This will be accompanied by a free medical outreach and the commissioning of quick impact projects within host communities”
Marking the 161st anniversary of the Nigerian Army, these measures are part of the activities planned for the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024, which seeks to address contemporary security challenges and strengthen the Army’s capabilities.
Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, while fielding questions from Journalists at the Army headquarters, Abuja, highlighted the historical significance of the Nigerian Army, tracing its origins back to 1863 when Lieutenant Glover of the Royal Navy organized 18 indigenes of Northern Nigeria into a local force known as the “Glover Hausas.”
Over the years, this force evolved into the modern Nigerian Army, playing crucial roles in national defense and international peacekeeping efforts.
This year’s celebration, themed “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment,” aims to underscore the importance of transformation for combat readiness and national security.
Plateau State has been chosen to host the event, with the Executive Governor graciously accepting the responsibility.
“From June 28 to 30, there will be special Jumma’at Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services across all formations and units. This will be followed by speaking engagements at secondary schools nationwide aimed to promote patriotism and selfless service, accompanied by a free medical outreach and the commissioning of quick impact projects within host communities.
“A special lecture will be followed by award ceremony for the Chief of Army Staff Literary Competitions and an interactive session with media executives. A golf tournament will take place at Rhino Country Golf Club, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.
“The celebration will culminate on July 6 with the Grand Finale at 3 Division Physical Training Ground, featuring a parade, commendation awards, armament displays, and exhibitions on the Army’s transformation”, Lagbaja said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honour.
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Lagbaja expressed gratitude to the press for their long-standing partnership and urged them to provide extensive coverage of the celebration.
He reassured the nation of the Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national security, emphasizing the importance of synergy with sister services and other security agencies.
The Chief of Army Staff also appreciated Tinubu for his continuous strategic guidance and support, which has enabled the Nigerian Army to perform its duties diligently and professionally.
He reaffirmed the loyalty of all officers and men to the President and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Lagbaja also called on all Nigerians to support the Army and other security agencies in their efforts to resolve the country’s security challenges, promising that the Nigerian Army will continue to conduct both kinetic and non-kinetic operations to ensure peace and stability.
