The Nigerian Army on Sunday honoured veterans, fallen heroes and serving personnel at a Gala Night held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), reaffirming its commitment to national security, military professionalism and personnel welfare.
The event, held at the EUI Event Centre ahead of the grand finale of the week-long celebration, brought together senior military officers, veterans, government officials, diplomats and other stakeholders to celebrate the Army’s achievements and recognise the sacrifices of those who have served the nation.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described NADCEL 2026 as another milestone in the Nigerian Army’s transformation journey, noting that the series of activities organised across the country showcased the Army as a strategic institution promoting national cohesion and stability.
He said the Nigerian Army’s legacy of courage, resilience and selfless service, demonstrated through peace support operations across Africa and ongoing internal security operations, continues to strengthen national security and boost public confidence in the Armed Forces.
The COAS paid tribute to fallen heroes, stressing that their sacrifices remain the foundation upon which the Nigerian Army will continue to build a stronger, safer and more secure Nigeria.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, improving the welfare of its personnel and enhancing its operational capabilities to effectively address emerging security challenges.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued strategic support, which he said has strengthened the Army’s 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 occasion to honour officers and soldiers who continue to defend the country’s territorial integrity.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes and expressed solidarity with their families, while commending the Nigerian Army, particularly the 6 Division, for its role in maintaining peace and security in Rivers State. Wokoma also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with the Army through logistics, operational support and personnel welfare.
Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, said NADCEL 2026 showcased the Nigerian Army’s operational successes, humanitarian interventions and expanding strategic partnerships.
He acknowledged the humanitarian initiatives of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) under the leadership of its National President and Wife of the Chief of Army Staff, as well as the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Summit.
Major General Etsu-Ndagi also expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government, African Chiefs of Army Staff, veterans and former ECOMOG Force Commander, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), for their enduring contributions to regional peace and security.
The Gala Night featured cultural displays, documentaries, musical and comedy performances, alongside the presentation of awards to African Chiefs of Army Staff and distinguished veterans in recognition of their outstanding service and contributions to regional and continental security.
Among those in attendance were former Chiefs of Defence Staff, former Chiefs of Army Staff, the President of NAOWA, members of the Diplomatic Corps, traditional rulers, serving and retired senior military officers, discharged personnel and their families, underscoring the enduring bond between the Nigerian Army, its veterans, strategic partners and the Nigerian people.
