The Nigerian Army has on Monday re-affirmed its a secular organization that upholds the principle of religious freedom for all its personnel and ensures that personnel irrespective of ranks is free to practice their religions without any form of bias or endorsement of a specific religion
Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu disclosed this while reactimg to a misleading viral report suggesting that the Nigerian Army only runs a School of Islamic Affairs, ignoring other faith.
According to General Nwachukwu, considering the gravity of this falsehood, the Nigerian Army wishes to categorically state that this propaganda in its entirety is dead on arrival as it clearly does not reflect the values of the esteemed institution.
The viral report also made futile effort to portray the NA as exclusively encouraging religious bigotry among its personnel
General Nwachukwu stated that: "Our unwavering commitment to secularism guarantees that religious diversity is respected and accommodated, allowing soldiers to observe their faith without hindrance to their duties.
"For clarity, the NA operates multiple religious training institutions to cater to the diverse faiths of our personnel. In addition to the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs located in NA Cantonment Ikeja, Lagos, the NA also has the Nigerian Army Protestant Training School in Yaba and the Nigerian Army Chaplain Catholic Training School in Ojo Cantonment. These schools frequently engage in interfaith collaborations, promoting unity and cohesion among our diverse members.
"Our dedication to secularism is aimed at fostering a professional and inclusive environment, where individuals can serve their country without fear of religious discrimination or bias. This approach ensures that all officers and soldiers can practice their beliefs in a supportive and respectful setting."
He said the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values of secularism and religious freedom, ensuring that all personnel can serve with dignity and respect for their individual beliefs.
