As part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army on Sunday held an Interdenominational Church Service at St Christopher Military Church Protestant, TA Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja, where prayers were offered for the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria, as well as the continued success of the Nigerian Army.
This was contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya Acting Deputy’ director army public relations,81 division Nigerian army issued to newsmen.
Representing the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, the Commander 55 Signals Brigade, Brigadier General Clement Iyere, delivered the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM.
The COAS expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness throughout the Nigerian Army’s 163-year history and urged personnel to reflect on the institution’s achievements, honour its fallen heroes and renew their commitment to the defence of the nation.
He noted that the theme of NADCEL 2026, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflects the Army’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty while strengthening public confidence through professionalism, operational effectiveness and the Soldiers First concept. He also reaffirmed his commitment to personnel welfare through improved accommodation, healthcare, training and other welfare initiatives.
The COAS paid tribute to fallen heroes, wounded personnel, veterans and the families of serving personnel for their sacrifices and support, while urging personnel to uphold the values of loyalty, discipline, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.
The Interdenominational Church Service forms part of activities lined up for NADCEL 2026 and underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to spiritual renewal, national service and the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The event was attended by formation commanders, senior officers, officers and soldiers of 81 Division, as well as members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and the Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives Association among others.