NADCEL 2026: 6 Brigade Holds Special Church Service to Mark Nigerian Army’s 163rd Anniversary.
By Christiana Babayo
The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Sunday held a special church service in Jalingo, Taraba State, as part of activities marking the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army.
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The service, held at Saint Peter Catholic Church, Nukkai, brought together military personnel, government officials, security chiefs, and other dignitaries to celebrate the Nigerian Army’s enduring contributions to national security and unity.
Speaking at the event, Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, described the occasion as an opportunity to thank God for His protection over the Armed Forces, honour the sacrifices of officers and soldiers, and pray for lasting peace, unity, and security in the country.
The governor noted that military service is more than a profession, describing it as a noble calling that demands discipline, courage, loyalty, endurance, and selfless sacrifice.
He said the theme of this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” aptly reflects the Army’s critical role in safeguarding the nation and fostering public trust.
According to him, the strength of the Nigerian Army lies not only in its operational capabilities but also in its professionalism, discipline, and commitment to constitutional order.
“Since its establishment, the Nigerian Army has remained a central pillar of Nigeria’s unity, sovereignty, and stability,” the governor stated.
Dr. Kefas commended officers and soldiers for their unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity, supporting internal security operations, participating in peacekeeping missions, and responding to emerging security challenges across the country.
He called on Nigerians to continue praying for members of the Armed Forces and to actively support efforts aimed at promoting peace and national cohesion.
The governor stressed that security remains a collective responsibility, urging citizens to provide credible information to security agencies and engage in activities that strengthen unity and peaceful coexistence.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and the leadership and personnel of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS for their contributions to maintaining peace and stability in Taraba State.
Dr. Kefas reaffirmed the commitment of the Taraba State Government to supporting lawful and coordinated security operations, noting that his administration would continue to work closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
In his remarks, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, thanked the governor, dignitaries, and the people of Taraba State for their continued support to the Brigade’s operations.
He also expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff for his visionary leadership, strategic guidance, and commitment to enhancing the operational effectiveness and welfare of Nigerian Army personnel.
The special church service was attended by Governor Agbu Kefas, senior government officials, heads of security agencies, serving and retired military officers, the Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 6 Brigade Chapter, and other distinguished guests.
