EVERY July 6th has always been marked as the
Nigerian Army Day. The day has historical
significance because it marks a turning point in the
history of the Nigerian Army annually.
Many would wonder why celebrating when the nation
is at a war with one of the most barbaric terrorist
groups known in human history, the Boko Haram
Terrorists (BHT) for almost five years with no end in
sight. Indeed, the Army and of course all Nigerians,
have cause to rejoice and celebrate the Nigerian Army
for its longevity and accomplishments especially given
its recent success in the fight against terrorism and
insurgency in the country.
The Nigerian Army has undergone a lot within the last
one year, the fight against insurgency, vilification by
some sections of the public, media and most
unfortunately; the Amnesty International. However, it
was able to wither the storm.
It remains ever strong, a bastion of national security
and rallying point of national unity. Within the last
one year, the army has accomplished so much in the
areas of training, procurement and administration that
helped in turning the tide against the terrorists. It
now has a new aviation wing and established a
command and control centre at the epicentre of the
theatre of operations.
Sometime ago, some officers and soldiers of the
Nigerian Army took to their heels at the sight of
approaching terrorists, but today, it is the soldiers
that chase the insurgents.
The show of solidarity, support and understanding of
Nigerians at the most trying moments of the Nigerian
Army is worth celebrating. So many detractors have
tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to tarnish the name and
reputation of the Nigerian Army, among whom were
highly placed personalities and retired senior military
officers.
But the encouraging resolve of Nigerians to be solidly
behind the Nigerian Army is heartwarming. They were
able to recapture and dominate all the territories
hitherto held by Boko Haram terrorists. These include
Baga, Gwoza, Bama, Monguno, Dikwa, Michika, Mubi
and Baga amongst others.
The Nigerian Army has made tremendous sacrifices to
ensure the safety of lives and properties of Nigerians
and defence of the nation’s territorial integrity.
We have lost so many officers and men in the course
of securing our great nation from the terrorists,
criminals such as illegal oil bunkerers, kidnappers and
armed robbers. Brief History of the Nigerian Army The
history of the Nigerian Army could be traced to as far
back as 1863 when Lieutenant Glover assembled
mostly northern able-bodied men to protect the Royal
Niger Company, which was referred to as the “Glover
Hausas”. Since then, the Army has undergone
transformation in nomenclature, grown in size and
weaponry.
Today, it is embarking on Army Aviation and boasts
of modern and sophisticated weapons and training
instructions that not only train its men and officers
but civilians alike, thus contributing to knowledge and
national development. Significance of Nigerian Army
Day Celebration There is a saying that in a life of a
man, there is a time to be born and a time to die.
The first is far more significant to this discuss.
Although there is no exact date when Lieutenant
Glover formed his Glover’s Hausas, July 6th of every
year came to be adopted because it marked the day
when the Nigerian civil war began in 1967.
It was on record that the first shot was fired on July
6, 1967 at Ugep in present Cross River State. Why it
is worth celebrating; Achievements or significant
milestones within the last one year The Nigerian Army
has achieved a lot over its long period of existence,
most importantly, within the last one year.
Why the celebration is low-keyed and why part of it
will be done in Maiduguri/North East. The Nigerian
Army, conscious of its commitment to its
constitutional duties especially as regards to the
defence of the territorial integrity of our dear nation,
could not afford flamboyant celebration, as was the
case in the past.
This year’s celebration is solemn based on the
commitment to the successful conclusion of the fight
against Boko Haram terrorists and recognition of the
sacrifice of our officers and soldiers and honouring of
our departed colleagues who paid the supreme
sacrifice in the defence of our country.
Part of the activities marking this year’s NADCEL is
visit to and special prayer at the military cemetery in
Maiduguri. This is significant, as apart from the
prayers, it goes a long way to show the bond
between those that paid the supreme sacrifice in
Operation Zaman Lafiya and their colleagues.
Similarly, those most deserving would also be
presented with medals for their bravery and
perseverance. What is expected of the Army and what
is its expectation from the public or Nigerians We are
really conscious of our constitutional duties and the
high expectations of Nigerians.
Therefore, the Nigerian Army more than ever before is
determined to destroy Boko Haram terrorists’ camps,
enclaves and wherever they might be.
However, we also need continued support, prayers
and understanding of the public. Nigerians should see
the fight against terrorism and insurgency as a
collective responsibility. We owe it a duty to support
and encourage the army to enable it succeed.
•Colonel Usman is Acting Director, Army Public
Relations.



www.ngrguardiannews.com/2015/07/nigerian-army-152/

GOD bless our gallant Armies and for those that lost their lives in trying to protect us, May their families find peace (Amin)

Hmmm

#shalom cum salaam

OREMUSSANCTUS:
#shalom cum salaam

my man, when u wan stop to dey cum? #salam #shalom

All is well

b

midolian:
my man, when u wan stop to dey cum? #salam #shalom

I no mean dat kind of "cum"

Celebrating 152 years of corruption and backwardness. I still believe the Nigerian army is supposed to be well positioned to challenge the ISIS threat in north and west Africa.

Thanks

The first gun short wasn't fired at Ugep, Cross River State, but Garkem, Benue State.

Armed Boys Scout at 152.

Haha, only to make civilians do nwaawo(frog) jump.

www.nairaland.com/attachments/2527505_1_jpeg83b5009e040969ee7b60362ad7426573