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From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
The chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yaradua, has congratulated the Chief of Army Staff, officers, soldiers and veterans on the occasion of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, urging stronger collaboration between the military and civilians in tackling the country’s security challenges.
Yaradua, in a statement on Monday to mark the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, described July 6 as a landmark in the history of the Nigerian Army, noting that the institution has spent 163 years defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said the Army had, for more than a century and a half, remained a symbol of courage, sacrifice and national stability despite the evolving nature of security threats.
The lawmaker said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflects both the constitutional responsibility of the Army and its growing relationship with the Nigerian people.
According to him, the theme highlights professionalism, accountability, innovation and service as the foundation of modern military operations.
While paying tribute to troops serving in the North-West, North-East and other operational theatres where they continue to battle banditry, terrorism and other forms of insecurity, Yaradua added that national security depends not only on military capability but also on public trust and cooperation.
He commended the soldiers for their sacrifices in protecting communities and restoring hope to affected populations, while honouring personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty and praying for the speedy recovery of those wounded during operations.
The senator also reaffirmed the commitment of the Senate Committee on Army to providing the legislative support, oversight and funding required to strengthen the Nigerian Army. He said ongoing efforts, including the review of the Armed Forces Act and other legislative interventions, are aimed at equipping the military with an effective legal framework and improved welfare system capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.
Yaradua expressed optimism that the 2026 Army Day celebration would deepen public appreciation for the institution’s contributions to national development, inspire patriotism and reinforce the partnership between the military and the civilian population.
He urged officers and soldiers to remain committed to professionalism, discipline and people-centred service in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities, assuring them of the continued support of the Senate and Nigerians.
