Nigerian Army marks 163rd Army Day, honors veterans and pledges security

On July 6, 2026 the Nigerian Army celebrated its 163rd Army Day (NADCEL) with a gala in Port Harcourt and nationwide events. Chief of Army Staff Lt‑Gen Waidi Shaibu highlighted the army’s transformation, operational achievements and humanitarian work, and thanked President Bola Tinubu for enhanced resources. Acting Director of Army Public Relations Col Appolonia Anele, Governor Siminalayi Fubara and senior officers also paid tribute to fallen heroes and pledged continued support for personnel welfare and operational capability.

Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, praised the celebration’s theme “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People” and urged stronger civil‑military ties. He noted the army’s role in counter‑banditry and terrorism across the north‑west and north‑east, and announced legislative reviews of the Armed Forces Act to modernise the legal and welfare framework for the forces. The event also featured cultural performances, presentations to African army chiefs and recognition of humanitarian initiatives by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association.