Army committed to protecting citizens, safeguarding democracy – COAS

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting citizens and defending the nation’s democracy as Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity.

Speaking on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja during a press briefing to flag off activities marking the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, Oluyede said the Army remains focused on its constitutional mandate to secure the country against all enemies of peace and agents of instability.

Represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Gold Chibuisi, he said, “In recent times, our nation has had to contend with the enemies of peace and agents of chaos who have brought terrorism to our borders and caused a plethora of internal security issues.

“Notwithstanding, the Nigerian Army has risen to the occasion to deny these terrorists the opportunity to disrupt our socio-cultural heritage or smear the sanctity of our sovereignty.”

According to him, the Nigerian Army has continued to play a crucial role in maintaining law and order, supporting civil authority, and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians

“The Nigerian Army will not relent in its efforts to ensure the security of the Nigerian people and the perpetuity of our democracy,” he said.

Oluyede also said the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda is now firmly anchored on improving the welfare and professional capacity of its personnel.

He said this was part of efforts to reposition the force for greater operational effectiveness and national service.

Oluyede said, “This theme was carefully selected as it espouses our renewed drive to transform the Army by placing our soldiers first.

“The Nigerian Army, as an instrument of national unity, integration and development, has made significant strides in innovation, research and development, civil-military relations, and technological advancement to better equip the soldier to carry out his constitutional responsibilities.”

He also highlighted the Nigerian Army’s legacy of sacrifice and national service, pointing to its involvement in both World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, regional peacekeeping missions, and the current counter-terrorism efforts.

“As we mark 162 years of existence, we honour the heroic contributions of our officers and soldiers, past and present. From the days of the Glover Hausas to today’s modern fighting force, the Nigerian Army has stood as a pillar of national stability,” he added.

Highlighting the Activities for NADCEL 2025, he said they include civil-military projects across Kaduna State, free medical outreach, charity initiatives, public speaking engagements in schools, and a lecture at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

The celebration will climax with a grand military parade and awards ceremony on July 6.