Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in Port Harcourt on Sunday, 5 July 2026, to a warm reception from Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as the state prepares to host the grand finale of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026). The Vice President, who is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, was received at the Presidential Wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport by Governor Fubara, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, senior military officers, and officials of the Rivers State Government. The grand finale of the celebration is scheduled to take place on Monday, 6 July 2026, at the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration is an annual event that commemorates the establishment of the Nigerian Army and honours the courage, sacrifice, and professionalism of officers and soldiers in safeguarding Nigeria's territorial integrity and supporting internal security operations. This year's celebration, hosted by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, features ceremonial parades, military operational displays, cultural performances, and strategic engagements designed to showcase the achievements of the Nigerian Army while addressing emerging security challenges and future defence priorities. The event also provides a platform for reflection on operational successes, institutional development, and strategies for strengthening the country's defence capabilities.
Shettima is expected to officially declare the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration closed at the concluding ceremony. His presence underscores the Federal Government's commitment to supporting the armed forces and recognising their critical role in maintaining national security. The Vice President's participation also highlights the importance of the Rivers State hosting, which Governor Fubara has described as a strong indication of the state's improved security situation. Fubara noted that the decision to host the Army's 163rd Anniversary Celebration in Rivers State, despite recent security narratives, reflects growing confidence in the state's peace and stability.
The celebration has attracted an impressive array of international and national dignitaries. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, had earlier disclosed that the event would attract Chiefs of Army Staff from 21 African countries, two former Nigerian presidents, and Vice President Kashim Shettima, among other distinguished guests. The international participation underscores Nigeria's strategic role in regional security cooperation and the respect the Nigerian Army commands across the continent. The gathering of top military brass from across Africa provides a unique opportunity for deepening defence cooperation against transnational security threats.
Ahead of the Vice President's arrival, Governor Fubara had on Friday, 3 July 2026, received the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House in Port Harcourt as part of activities marking the anniversary. During that meeting, Fubara commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in combating crime and crude oil theft, saying the military's operations have helped boost oil production and, by extension, increased revenue accruing to the country. The governor praised the Army Chief for his leadership, particularly in strengthening security across the country and improving the welfare of officers and soldiers. He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army would continue to discharge its constitutional responsibility of safeguarding the nation's territorial integrity and maintaining internal security.
The Army Chief, in his address, described Rivers State as a strategic partner to the Nigerian Army and commended the state government for its consistent support to the 6 Division, especially the upgrade of infrastructure and the provision of facilities for the anniversary celebration. He expressed appreciation to Governor Fubara for his administration's commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army in Rivers State. The visit and subsequent preparations for the grand finale have demonstrated the strong partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army, a relationship that Governor Fubara has pledged to sustain to ensure peace, security, and economic growth in the state and the country.
As Port Harcourt hosts this landmark military event, the city has become a hub of activity, with military parades, exhibitions, and other activities highlighting the Army's operational achievements and its role in national development. The 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration serves as an opportunity to honour the sacrifices and contributions of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army in safeguarding the nation's territorial integrity and maintaining national security. For Rivers State, hosting this prestigious event is a moment of pride and a testament to the state's strategic importance to Nigeria's national security architecture. As the grand finale approaches on Monday, all eyes are on Port Harcourt, where the nation will celebrate its military heritage and reaffirm its commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
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