NADCEL 2026: Matawalle Urges Nigerians to Pray for Nation, Support Security Efforts

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in praying for the country and its leaders, describing such prayers as both a civic responsibility and a religious obligation necessary for national progress and stability.

Matawalle made the appeal on Friday while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at a Special Jumu’ah Prayer held at the Army Headquarters Garrison Central Mosque, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, as part of activities marking the commencement of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).

Addressing worshippers at the event, which was themed, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” the minister stressed that patriotism must go beyond expressions of goodwill and be reflected in actions that contribute to national security and the protection of lives and property.

He noted that collective commitment from citizens remains vital in supporting government efforts to address the nation’s security challenges and strengthen peace across the country.

In his sermon following the prayer session, the Director of the Nigerian Army Directorate of Islamic Affairs, Brigadier General Usman Musa, emphasized that security should not be viewed as the exclusive responsibility of government and security agencies.

According to him, communities that remain passive when confronted by criminal elements inadvertently allow insecurity to flourish, urging citizens to actively collaborate with security agencies in combating crime.

Using Maiduguri as an example, Brigadier General Musa said the city witnessed significant improvements in security because residents rejected criminality and partnered closely with security forces.

He explained that the cooperation between the people and security agencies helped push insurgents away from the city centre into surrounding areas, thereby restoring relative peace and stability.

“The right approach is for government and the public to confront criminal elements together, rather than leave the burden to government alone,” he stated.

The Special Jumu’ah Prayer attracted top military officers and dignitaries, including the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shu’aibu; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas; senior military officers; members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA); and other invited guests.

The event marked the beginning of activities lined up for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which seeks to highlight the contributions of the Nigerian Army to national security and development.