The 2019 Nigerian Army Day Celebration and Combat Support Arms Training Week was on Monday declared open at the headquarters, Nigerian Army Ordinance Corps, Abalti barracks in Lagos by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin with a charge to troops in all theatre’s of operation to remain resolute and dogged in the battle to rid Nigeria of all security threats..“This year’s celebration is unique because both events are being held simultaneously” the CDS said, just as he reminded participants including General Officers Commanding, Corp Commanders, Commandants of Army and Tri-Service Institutions and PSOs at services headquarters, that NADCEL serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerian gallant troops in securing Nigeria.
“NADCEL 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.”.
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Congratulating the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai and his men for the landmark event, General Olonisakin said, “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 paid the ultimate sacrifice in the course of fighting evil and keeping Nigeria safe.
“We stand strong on the strength of their heroic acts today today with a sacred responsibility to ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain”.
It would be recalled that the Nigerian Army is celebrating its 156th year of existence since its establishment.
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 address, 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 country remain united as a nation.
