The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold the virtues of unity, discipline and professionalism as they celebrate Christmas 2025 and prepare for the New Year 2026.
In a goodwill message released on Wednesday, the Army Chief described Christmas as a season of reflection, renewal and thanksgiving, noting that the values of love, sacrifice, compassion, peace and unity embodied by the season align strongly with the ethos of the Nigerian Army.
Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His continued grace upon the nation and the Armed Forces, while commending officers, soldiers, civilian staff and their families for their resilience and dedication in the course of duty.
He paid special tribute to troops deployed in various operational theatres across the country who will spend the festive season away from their families, describing their service as a profound sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the safety of citizens.
According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army has continued to demonstrate professionalism in all theatres of operation despite evolving security challenges, attributing recent successes to sound leadership, divine guidance and the commitment of personnel.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed his resolve to strengthen professionalism and ensure combat readiness under his leadership, stressing that efforts will remain focused on sound administration, improved personnel welfare, recognition of excellence, and an efficient reward and sanction system.
He reiterated his Command Philosophy, which seeks to advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.
The Army Chief also appreciated the families of military personnel for their patience, sacrifices and support, assuring them of the Army’s commitment to improving welfare programmes that support military families.
He further acknowledged the support of sister services, other security and intelligence agencies, ministries, departments, state governors, traditional rulers, host communities and patriotic Nigerians, noting that their cooperation remains vital to the successful execution of the Army’s constitutional mandate.
Looking ahead to 2026, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the Nigerian Army will intensify efforts to tackle emerging threats, consolidate gains across all operational theatres, strengthen intelligence architecture and enhance counterinsurgency strategies.
He assured Nigerians of the Army’s unshakable loyalty and commitment to defending the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while honouring the memory of fallen heroes whose sacrifices, he said, continue to inspire the force.
The COAS also expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief for his strategic leadership and consistent support to the Nigerian Army, highlighting improvements in funding, training infrastructure, modern equipment acquisition and welfare initiatives.
He concluded by wishing all officers, soldiers, civilian staff and their families a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2026 filled with peace, joy and renewed blessings.
