Taraba State governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and for maintaining internal security.
The governor made the remarks during the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), marking the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army, held at the St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Nukai in Jalingo.
The service, with the theme; “Military Service, a Prophetic Call to Protect Nigeria”, under the general theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A way forward for the Nigerian Army” brought together government officials, members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other paramilitary agencies.
The service also witnessed special prayer session for Nigeria and its communities, Nigerian leaders and the Nigerian armed forces and the soldiers in the field fighting battle to keep the country safe.
Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue to support security agencies in the state to safeguard the lives and property of the people across the state.
The governor, who addressed officers, soldiers and veterans, said, as a retired military officer himself, military service is a noble calling that demands discipline, courage, loyalty, endurance and selfless sacrifice.
“I stand before you not only as Governor of Taraba State but also as a retired military officer who had the privilege of wearing the uniform of our great nation.
“Military service is not merely a profession; it is a calling that requires courage, discipline and sacrifice in the service of others,” he said.
The governor, congratulated the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, officers, soldiers, veterans and the entire Nigerian Army family on the occasion.
He noted that, since its establishment, the Nigerian Army has remained a critical institution in preserving Nigeria’s unity, defending its territorial integrity and responding to emerging security threats.
Governor Kefas said, the theme of this year’s celebration, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive,” underscores the importance of professionalism, discipline, respect for human rights and commitment to constitutional order.
He praised the contributions of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in maintaining peace and stability in Taraba State.
He added that, the level of cooperation security agencies are according the state government was instrumental in boosting public confidence and creating an enabling environment for development.
“There can be no meaningful development without security. Roads, schools, hospitals, farms, markets and investments can only thrive where lives and property are adequately protected,” the governor stated.
Kefas, however paid tribute to fallen heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty, and honoured wounded personnel, veterans and the families of serving soldiers for their sacrifices in service to the nation.
He called on citizens to support security agencies by promoting peace, providing credible information and fostering unity, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.
Earlier, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brig.-Gen. CM Akaliro, expressed appreciation to Governor Kefas for his administration’s continued support for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies operating in Taraba State.
The Brigade Commander, said the state’s support had significantly enhanced troop welfare and operational effectiveness in the fight against insecurity.
He also commended officers, soldiers, veterans and their families for their dedication, resilience and sacrifices, and urged personnel to remain committed to professionalism, discipline and national service.
Brigadier General Akaliro observed that, as a result of the relative peace in the state, one sometimes imagine that, Taraba is not part of the North East states.
