The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to national security, military professionalism and the welfare of its personnel as it honoured veterans and serving soldiers during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Gala Night held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Gala Night, held on Sunday at the EUI Event Centre, was one of the highlights of the week-long NADCEL 2026 activities and celebrated the sacrifices, dedication and contributions of both serving and retired personnel to Nigeria's peace and security.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described NADCEL 2026 as another milestone in the Nigerian Army's transformation journey, noting that the nationwide celebrations reflected the Service's role as a strategic institution promoting national unity, stability and security.
He said the Army's enduring legacy of courage, resilience and selfless service, demonstrated through peace support operations across Africa and ongoing internal security operations, continues to strengthen national security and inspire public confidence in the Armed Forces.
The COAS paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes, describing their sacrifices as the foundation upon which the Nigerian Army would continue to build a stronger, safer and more secure Nigeria.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed the Army's commitment to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, improving the welfare of its personnel and enhancing its operational capabilities to effectively confront emerging security threats.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued strategic support, which he said has significantly improved the Army's operational effectiveness, force development and mission readiness across various theatres of operation.
Representing the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, described the Gala Night as a fitting tribute to officers and soldiers who continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of the nation.
He honoured the memories of fallen heroes, expressed solidarity with their families and commended the Nigerian Army, particularly the 6 Division, for its role in maintaining peace and security in Rivers State.
Wokoma reaffirmed the state government's commitment to sustaining collaboration with the Nigerian Army through logistics, operational support and personnel welfare to strengthen national security.
Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, said NADCEL 2026 showcased the Nigerian Army's operational successes, humanitarian interventions and expanding strategic partnerships.
He commended the humanitarian programmes of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA), led by the wife of the Chief of Army Staff, and praised the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Summit.
Major General Etsu-Ndagi also appreciated the Rivers State Government, African Chiefs of Army Staff, veterans and the former Force Commander of ECOMOG, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), for their contributions to regional peace and security.
