Nigerian Army Marks 161st Anniversary with Awards, Lectures, and Community Projects

The Nigerian Army has celebrated 161st Anniversary with awards to distinguished personnel at a grand ceremony in Jos, Plateau State.

The week-long events of the anniversary included lectures aimed at enhancing security, civil-military relations, and the commissioning of quick impact projects in various communities.

Some of the projects included solar-powered boreholes, classrooms, and medical outreaches.

In his keynote address at the grand finale, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured the military of the government’s support to end insecurity in Nigeria, acknowledging the huge sacrifices made by the Nigerian Army to keep citizens safe despite security challenges.

Represented by Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the President noted that the army had risen to the challenge, and his administration is working to equip them to perform their constitutional role.

The President also approved the payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers, the purchase of attack helicopters, and necessary equipment to enhance their performance.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Abiodun Lagbaja, emphasized the importance of civil-military relations in peacekeeping, urging stakeholders and communities to understand its key role.

The event recognised and honoured deserving officers/soldiers,

Notable awardees included Colonel MS Jafaar, who received the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award for his exemplary integrity in reporting an erroneous payment of N270 million into his account and seeking an investigation with a view to recovering the monies to the Federal Government Coffers.

A well-decorated Officer, Colonel MS Jaafar, is currently serving at the Nigerian Defence Academy as a Chief Instructor.
Other recipients included Brigadier General DR Dantani, Brigadier General UV Unachukwu, Colonel Sabo, Lieutenant Colonels US Abdullahi, Adom, and Dzarma, among others.

The Army Headquarters Regimental Sergeant Major, Army Warrant Officer Sanusi Mohammed, also received the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award. Ten soldiers, including five severely wounded in combat, received keys to new homes.

Other activities included a military parade, the display of military equipment, commissioning of two helicopters,
and equipment exhibition by various Research and Development outfits.