Nigerian Army Engages Yobe Students During NADCEL 2025 to Inspire Future Military Leaders

From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu

The Nigerian Army on Friday, marked its annual Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) in Yobe State with a special public speaking engagement aimed at educating young Nigerians on the military’s vital role and diverse career opportunities.

As part of this year’s event, selected secondary schools in Damaturu, the state capital, hosted Lieutenant Colonel M.A. Saleh, who delivered an insightful lecture on the history, selection processes, and career progression within the Nigerian Army.

Lt. Col. Saleh opened his address by reaffirming the Army’s constitutional mandate under Section 217 of the Nigerian Constitution—to defend and protect the country’s territorial integrity. He emphasized that NADCEL is a time to reflect on the Army’s achievements and to honour fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

Explaining the rationale for bringing the programme to schools, Lt. Col. Saleh said the initiative aimed to foster awareness, stimulate dialogue, and generate interest among the younger generation in military careers.

He provided a brief but compelling historical overview of the Nigerian Army, tracing its roots to the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF), established in 1900 by the British to protect colonial interests. He also mentioned an earlier formation in 1863 known as the “7 Hausa Constabularies,” organized by Lieutenant J. Hawley John Glover.

The Army, he noted, has played a pivotal role in internal security since independence and was instrumental in preserving national unity during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970. He also highlighted professional development pathways such as the Executive Commission (EC) and concessional commissions, which provide serving soldiers with opportunities for upward mobility.

Reacting to the event, Bukar Zarma, Senior Master at Government Secondary School, Damaturu, described the initiative as timely and impactful. “This is a very important programme, especially for my students. Many of them are interested in joining the Nigerian Army after graduation, and this session has given them the clarity and confidence to ask the right questions,” he said.

Also speaking, Hajiya Ladi Ghali, Principal of Government Girls Unity College, Damaturu, commended the Army’s outreach, emphasizing its relevance to both male and female students. “Even though our school is all-female, we believe that what a man can do, a woman can do—even better,” she asserted.

With this year’s NADCEL celebration, the Nigerian Army appears to have succeeded in building awareness, inspiring future military careers, and strengthening its relationship with the youth in Yobe State.