Matawalle Urges Nigerians to Pray for Nation, Support Security Efforts at NADCEL 2026
Oru Leonard
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in praying for the country and its leaders, describing the act as both a civic responsibility and a religious obligation.
Matawalle made the appeal on Friday while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the Special Jumu’ah Prayer held at the Army Headquarters Garrison Central Mosque, Mogadishu Cantonment,
Asokoro, Abuja, to mark the commencement of activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Speaking on the theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” the minister said genuine patriotism extends beyond words and emotions, stressing that it must be reflected in actions that strengthen national security and protect the lives and well-being of citizens.
He called on Nigerians to support the nation’s security agencies through prayers and collective commitment to peace and stability.
Delivering the sermon, the Director of the Nigerian Army Directorate of Islamic Affairs, Brigadier General Usman Musa, said the responsibility for ensuring security should not be left to government alone. He urged communities to actively collaborate with security agencies in confronting criminal elements.
Using Maiduguri as an example, Brigadier General Musa noted that the city witnessed improved security after residents rejected criminality and worked closely with security forces, forcing insurgents out of the city centre into surrounding areas.
“The right approach is for government and the public to confront criminal elements together, rather than leave the burden to government alone,” he said.
The prayer session was attended by 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 dignitaries.
