The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has charged all personnel of the Nigerian Army to activate their prayer alter for peace to reign in the country, noting that, "for we are the ones who will suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war if we fail to pray for the peace of our land."
General Lagbaja said this at the interdenominational Church service held at the All Saints' Military Church (Protestant), Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024, in Abuja.
He charge personnel to heed the Biblical mandate to pray, intercede, and offer thanks, particularly for leaders and people in authority, "so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness, as recorded in 1 Timothy 2: 1-2."
The COAS also emphasized the importance of honoring the memory of those who have laid down their lives in service to the nation, saying, "We gather today to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of our fallen heroes. We remember their selflessness, their courage, and their dedication to the defense of our great nation. We pray for their souls, and we honor their memory by continuing to serve with the same level of commitment and dedication that they demonstrated."
General Lagbaja also urged troops to pray for the speedy recovery of personnel who suffered injuries during operations in defense of the nation, and emphasized the importance of national unity, integration, and development.
He commended the troops for their operational doggedness and commitment, and reiterated the Nigerian Army's motto, "Victory is from God Alone", attributing the army's operational successes to God's guidance and protection.
The COAS pledged the army's unalloyed loyalty to the Constitution, Government, and people of Nigeria, and expressed appreciation for the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other government officials.
The event was attended by Principal Staff Officers from Army and Services Headquarters, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, and members of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives' Association, among others. The highlight of the event was the NADCEL 2024 Special Thanksgiving, which featured prayers, hymns, and a sermon delivered by the Chaplain General of the Nigerian Army.
The COAS's call to prayer and remembrance serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes and the importance of honoring their memory by continuing to serve with dedication and commitment.