Abuja, Nigeria, July 9, 2024 — The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom for all its personnel, countering a misleading viral report that suggested it only operates a School of Islamic Affairs.
In response to the viral claims, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, described the report as false propaganda that misrepresents the values of the esteemed institution. He emphasized that the Nigerian Army is a secular organization dedicated to the principle of religious freedom, allowing personnel of all ranks to practice their religions without bias or favoritism.
The Army expressed its unwavering commitment to secularism, ensuring that religious diversity is respected and accommodated. This approach allows soldiers to observe their faith without hindrance to their duties, fostering a professional and inclusive environment where individuals can serve without fear of religious discrimination.
Major General Nwachukwu clarified that the Nigerian Army operates multiple religious training institutions to cater to the diverse faiths of its personnel. In addition to the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs in Ikeja, Lagos, the Nigerian Army also has the Nigerian Army Protestant Training School in Yaba and the Nigerian Army Chaplain Catholic Training School in Ojo Cantonment.
These institutions engage in interfaith collaborations, promoting unity and cohesion among the diverse members of the Army. By maintaining this stance, the Nigerian Army ensures that all officers and soldiers can practice their beliefs in a supportive and respectful setting, upholding the values of secularism and religious freedom.