2021 Army Day: Muslims in Enugu pray

Over 150 Muslim faithfuls in Enugu have prayed for the continuous operational success of the Nigerian Army at a special Jumaat Friday prayer, to commemorate the 2021 Nigerian Army Day celebrations (NADCEL).

The officers and soldiers of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army were joined by their families, friends and well-wishers to observe a two-hour service at the Division’s Central Mosque, Abakpa military cantonment, Enugu.

In an address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, charged the troops to remain resolute in the Army’s resolve to ensure a peaceful and secured environment in the country.

Yahaya, whose address was read by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Division, Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, lauded the officers and soldiers for their sacrifice and commitment to keep the nation as an indivisible entity.

He pledged that under his watch, the Army would leave no stone unturned in restoring peace, calm and security in all parts of the country.

“I urge you to remain focused on the battle against insurgency, terrorism, kidnapping and banditry, as we make progress to defeat all these enemies of the state,’’ he said.

The COAS also applauded the fallen heroes for their gallantry and for paying the ultimate sacrifice to keep the nation as one and painstakingly carrying out operational mandates.

“I extend the Nigerian Army’s heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of our fallen heroes, especially our immediate late COAS and other top officers who lost their lives in a recent plane crash.

“We pray to Almighty Allah to grant their families and friends the heart and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,’’ he said.

The army chief said that the Army would strengthen all existing relationships with other military formations, and sister security agencies, to ensure continuous, robust and inclusive operational successes.

Yahaya also stated that the welfare of the troops remained his top personal priority and would, therefore, ensure a conducive working environment for officers and soldiers, to bring out the best in them.

“I want to use this opportunity to thank the President and the National Assembly for finding me worthy to be the new COAS. I am pledging the loyalty of the Nigerian Army to deliver on the Presidential mandate,’’ he added.

High-points of the prayer, which was led by Deputy Director of 82 Division Islamic Affairs, Col. Lawali Sadiq, included a minute silence for the fallen heroes, including the immediate late COAS, Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru.

The Jumaat prayer also featured special prayers for the safety of the troops and their success, as well as peace and security of the country.

The 2021 NADCEL is marking 158 years of the army’s existence and its service to the nation and humanity.