In a bid to enhance the effectiveness of military operations, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Nigeria, has emphasised the need for spiritual efforts to complement the endeavors of the Nigerian Army.
During the Interdenominational Church Service held on July 2, 2023, at the Mogadishu Military Cantonment in Abuja, the Army Chief called upon the troops to support their military actions with prayers for the triumph of the Nigerian Army in its operational engagements.
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, stated in a press release that the COAS also urged prayers to uphold Nigeria’s unity in the face of contemporary security challenges that plague the nation.
This week, the Nigerian Army began commemorating its 160th year of existence since its formation in 1867 when the Royal Navy organized 18 men, known as the Glover Hausas, into the formidable force that it has become today.
General Lagbaja emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains a source of pride for the nation and a force to be reckoned with, not only in Africa but also globally. He highlighted that the Interdenominational Church Service, held today, is one of the many activities planned across all NA formations and units to celebrate the birth of the NA as a symbol of national unity and integration.
According to the Army Chief, this event offers an opportunity for supplications and prayers to be made to God Almighty on behalf of the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the entire nation.
“As we mark our 160th year, I must acknowledge that our journey has been arduous. The Nigerian Army has fought in a civil war, participated in peacekeeping missions, engaged in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations, and battled various criminal activities throughout the country,” stated the Army Chief.
General Lagbaja reiterated that the involvement of the Nigerian Army, both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders, has resulted in the sacrifice of loved ones and breadwinners.
“We have shed blood, witnessed the wounded in action, and seen our widows, widowers, and orphans multiply. Our sacrifices are fueled by our love for God, humanity, and our country,” he affirmed.
He urged all Nigerian Army personnel to reflect upon the prevailing security challenges and include them in their prayers, placing their trust in God Almighty to bless the efforts of the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria with success.
The COAS urged all personnel to continue giving their best to reciprocate the government’s support by remaining loyal, disciplined, patriotic, and resolute in their fight against security challenges in various operational theaters. He pledged further commitment to the welfare and well-being of the troops under his command.