NADCEL: CDS declares 2019 Army Day Celebrations open

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Gabriel Olonisakin has commended the Nigerian military particularly the Army for their patriotic zeal in combating surgency in the country.

Gen Olonisakin gave the commendation while declaring open, the 2019 Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) and Combat Support Arms Training (COSAT) week at the headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Abalti Barracks Lagos.

Gen Olonisakin said the Nigerian Army’s loyalty, courage and resilience in defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria are inspiring and unalloyed.

“This year’s occasion is unique because both events are being held simultaneously.” Gen Olonisakin said

He reminded participants that NADCEL serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerian gallant troops in securing Nigeria.

“It has also traditionally become an avenue to showcase the might and many contributions of the Nigerian Army in keeping Nigeria a safe and united country.

“Our experiences in the North East and other prevailing security challenges in the country underscore the need for capacity building through constant and effective training. Thus, the theme for this year’s NADCEL which is, Professionally Responsive Soldiering: A Panacea for Successful Military Operations, is quite apt and contemporary.” He stated.

Gen Olonisakin congratulated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai and his men for the landmark event.

“Your loyalty, courage and resilience in defending the territorial integrity of our dear country are inspiring and unalloyed. Let me also pay tribute to all our gallant officers and men who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the course of fighting evil and keeping Nigeria safe. We stand strong on the strength of their heroic acts today with a sacred responsibility to ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain.” Gen Olonisakin said.

The Nigerian Army celebrates its 156th year of existence since its establishment as the Glover’s Hausas in 1863. The choice of 6 July as NA Day is due to the historical fact that the first shot during the Nigerian Civil War was fired on that day at Garkem back in 1967. The 30-months civil war was fought to keep Nigeria one with a lot of soldiers paying the supreme price in the process.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai said, NADCEL is a constant reminder of the sacrifice made by troops most of whom laid down their lives to ensure the Force remain united as a nation.

“Though times have changed and the challenges have morphed, yet the resolve of Nigerian Army troops and its conquering spirit has waxed stronger and more triumphant. This is what we are celebrating today.” Lt Gen Buratai said.

“This year’s NADCEL is being conducted at a time when our soldiers are still fighting various evils bedevilling the nation on various fronts. A good number of our colleagues have over the years made the ultimate sacrifice in the process of keeping Nigerians safe. Many Nigerians have lost a sibling, relative or friend as our troops battled the enemy at the gate of our beloved nation. We honour these heroes and hold them in high esteem. They are the reason why we are alive and marching on to victory with teary eyes but with courageous hearts.” He added.

The event which brought together top echelons of the Nigerian Army and other Services also doubled as the Combat Support Arms Training (COSAT) week.