Troops commemorate Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
By Akanta Hannah
As part of the activities lined up to commemorate this year’s Nigerian Army Day celebration, troops of the Six Brigade Nigerian Army,Jalingo, held an interdenominational church service to thank God and celebrate the officers and men of the army.
The interdenominational church service, which took place at the Cathedral Church of Christ Anglican Communion in Jalingo, Taraba State, had in attendance senior officers, other security personnel, members of the Nigerian Army Wives Association, among others.
Delivering his speech, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, represented by the Brigade Commander of the Six Brigade Jalingo, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, explained that the Nigerian Army Day celebration is an annual event set aside by the Army to appreciate God for His preservation in the past year, honour fallen heroes, and seek God’s continuous blessings, protection, and grace in the new year.
Recounting the victories, sacrifices, and contributions of the military, the Chief of Army Staff said this year marks the one hundred and sixty-first year of the existence of the Nigerian Army.
He emphasized that their doggedness and resilience over these years of active service have earned them global recognition and commendation.
He said the theme for this year, “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment,” highlights their responsibility to national unity, integration, and development.
He assured that they would not rest on their oars in reinforcing national security, the rule of law, and the economic prosperity of Nigeria.
“My command philosophy seeks “to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.”
Lieutenant General Lagbaja used the opportunity to urge Nigerians to pray for the repose of the souls of officers who paid the supreme price while defending the country and for wounded soldiers as they recover.
Preaching on the topic “Walking with God,” Captain Reverend Jonathan Gana reminded soldiers of the need to maintain a consistent walk with God, stressing that it is only in God that they can find guaranteed safety.
“Many of us today, because of one challenge or the other, we have left God, many of us even in the church today walk with charms on their waist. Many believe that their safety is in the hand of others.”
Commending the military for their relentless service to humanity, he charged them to maintain the tempo while calling on Nigerians to pray for them and remain peaceful.
