The transformation of the army depends on the loyalty of the soldier – Coas
Abuja (basic reporter) The head of the army staff (Coas), the lieutenant general Olufemi Oluyede, underlined the critical role of loyalty in the transformation of the Nigerian army, describing it as a vital catalyst to strengthen the institution.
General Olyede made this statement on Sunday 29 June 2025, during the interdenomination church service held at All Saint Military Church (Protestant), the Army headquarters, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, as part of the activities that marked the celebration of the day of the Nigerian army (Nadcel) 2025.
The Coas observed that Nadcel offers the Nigerian army a moment to reflect on the sacrifices, resilience and unshakable commitment of its officers and soldiers in satisfying their constitutional responsibilities.
General Olyede said that the celebration symbolizes the lasting dedication of the army to Nigeria, while reflecting the patriotism and value exposed both by the past staff and current in various theaters of operations.
Despite the myriad of challenges found in the service line, the COAS reaffirmed the constant commitment of the Nigerian army to protect the sovereignty of Nigeria, ensuring its territorial integrity and safeguarding the rights of its citizens.
General Oloyede also reiterated the army aspirations to improve his operational skills through the intensified training and the continuous acquisition of the qualifying factors required to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the mission.
While praising the troops for their tenacity and operational dedication, the Coasters paid tribute to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice, urging the staff to serve to remain resolved and courageous in the face of adversity.
He underlined the promptness of the Nigerian army to collaborate with the parties concerned in promoting a joint and multi-agency operating environment to effectively perform his mandate.
The Coas also expressed a profound appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unshakable support for the Nigerian army and has promised the continuous loyalty of the institution to the Constitution, the Government and the people of Nigeria.
In addition, he extended gratitude to the National Assembly, to the Minister of Defense, to the Minister of State for Defense, the Head of Defense Staff, the Service Comrades and other Heads of Security Agencies for their coherent guide and collaboration.
Previously in his sermon, the director of the acting of the chaplain services (Protestant), Lieutenant Colonel Martins Amuluche, urged the troops to remain faithful in the discharge of their duties, describing loyalty as an expression of fidelity to God and a sign of constant moral courage. He stressed that the loyalty of a soldier has the potential to transform the conduct and revive the spiritual consciousness.
The interdenomination church of the Nadcel 2025 was honored by several dignitaries, including the head of the defense staff, General Christopher Musa and his wife, president of the defense and police officers of the Wives Association (Depowa), Mrs. Oghogho Musa, the senior officers who serve and both the members and the members of the Nigerian Army Association have retired and retired (Naveoowa).