To commemorate the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army (NA) and the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, formations and units under 82 Division NA carried out synchronized Public Speaking Engagements (PSEs) across selected secondary schools in Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states on 4 July 2025.
The initiative was designed to enhance civil-military relations, inspire youth leadership and promote national unity through education, dialogue and values-based interaction, noted the press statement of Lt. Col. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army.
In Enugu State, the 82 Division Garrison conducted its PSE at Annunciation Secondary School, Nkwo-Nike. Students were enlightened on the NA’s constitutional mandate, career opportunities and enduring values anchored in patriotism, discipline and national service.
Speaking on behalf of the Commander 82 Division Garrison, Brigadier General SJ Dogo, Major Essien Joseph, encouraged students to seek credible information that will guide them to become patriotic and globally respected citizens.
Similarly, in Cross River State, the PSE was held at Government Secondary School, State Housing, Atekong, Calabar. The Commander 13 Brigade NA, Brigadier General Muftau Owodiran Ibrahim, urged students to serve as responsible ambassadors of Nigeria and actively contribute to national development through positive engagement.
In the same vein, 14 Brigade NA conducted its engagement at Ngwa High School, Aba. Represented by Colonel Maxwell Maaji, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Hassan Bello emphasized the NA’s commitment to nurturing future leaders by fostering mutual understanding between the military and the civil populace through interactive learning and cultural appreciation.
Meanwhile, in Imo State, the 34 Artillery Brigade held its PSE at Comprehensive Secondary School, Obinze, Owerri West Local Government Area.
This engagement also served as a peace-building initiative for communities around the barracks. Representing the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Ibrahim Abbas, Major Joshua David encouraged students to familiarize themselves with the NA’s responsibilities and consider military profession as a noble career path.In Anambra State, the 302 Artillery Regiment delivered its session at Washington Grammar School, Onitsha.
The Commander, Colonel Adamu Kabir Mohammed, inspired students with insights into the rewarding prospects of a career in the Nigerian Army and the honorable values the service upholds.In one of the appreciation sessions, Miss Marcel Blossom, a student of Devine Christian College, Aba, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting how it reshaped student perceptions and instilled values that help combat social vices such as bullying, drug abuse and examination malpractice.
The events drew active participation from school principals, academic and non-academic staff, who commended the initiative and engaged enthusiastically in the discussions.
Key highlights of the engagements included the presentation of souvenirs, donation of educational materials, quizzes, debates and cultural displays—creating a vibrant and memorable experience for all participants.