The Nigerian Army has reinforced its commitment to preserving military tradition, honouring veterans and strengthening national security, using the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Gala Night to celebrate the sacrifices of serving and retired personnel while projecting its transformation as a modern, professional and mission-ready force.
Desk: Defence Affairs 🇳🇬
Date: Monday, 6 July 2026
Time: 18:35 WAT
Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria 🇳🇬
The gathering, held ahead of the grand finale of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Port Harcourt, reflected the Army's broader strategy of preserving institutional memory, strengthening military professionalism and deepening national unity through recognition of those who have served the country in uniform.
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 week-long activities demonstrated the Service's evolution into a strategic institution for national cohesion, stability and security.
According to the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Shaibu paid tribute to fallen heroes, stating that their courage, resilience and sacrifices remain the enduring foundation upon which the Army continues to build a stronger, safer and more secure Nigeria. He also reaffirmed the Service's commitment to defending the Constitution, improving troop welfare and continuously modernising its operational capabilities to confront emerging security threats.
The Army leadership further acknowledged the strategic support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that sustained government investment has strengthened operational effectiveness, force development and mission readiness across various theatres of operation.
Representing 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 whose sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation. He reaffirmed the state's commitment to sustaining cooperation with the Nigerian Army, particularly through logistics, operational support and personnel welfare aimed at strengthening national security.
The Nigerian Army also highlighted the broader achievements recorded during NADCEL 2026. Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, said the celebration showcased the Service's operational accomplishments, humanitarian engagements and expanding strategic partnerships.
Army authorities also recognised the humanitarian interventions of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association under the leadership of its National President, Dr Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, alongside the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, which brought together military leaders from across the continent to advance regional security cooperation.
The Army further expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government, African Chiefs of Army Staff, veterans and former Force Commander of ECOMOG, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), for their contributions to peace, security and military cooperation across Africa.
The Gala Night concluded with cultural performances, documentary presentations, musical entertainment and the presentation of awards to distinguished veterans and African Chiefs of Army Staff in recognition of their contributions to regional and continental security. The event attracted former Chiefs of Defence Staff, former Chiefs of Army Staff, diplomats, traditional rulers, serving and retired senior military officers, discharged personnel and their families, reflecting the enduring bond between the Nigerian Army, its veterans and strategic partners.
🏷️ Tags: Nigerian Army, NADCEL 2026, Veterans, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Military Tradition, National Security, Rivers State, Civil-Military Relations, Defence, Zig Press
#NigerianArmy #NADCEL2026 #Veterans #NationalSecurity #MilitaryLeadership #CivilMilitaryRelations #Defence #RiversState #ZigPress
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