The Nigerian Army has addressed a misleading viral report suggesting it exclusively runs a School of Islamic Affairs and promotes religious bigotry. The Army firmly states that this propaganda is entirely false and does not reflect its values.
According to Director Army Public Relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Nigerian Army is a secular organization that upholds religious freedom for all personnel, regardless of rank, ensuring that everyone can practice their faith without bias or endorsement of a specific religion. The Army’s commitment to secularism guarantees respect and accommodation of religious diversity, allowing soldiers to observe their faith without hindrance to their duties.
He said the Nigerian Army operates multiple religious training institutions for its diverse personnel. In addition to the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs in Ikeja, Lagos, it also has the Nigerian Army Protestant Training School in Yaba and the Nigerian Army Chaplain Catholic Training School in Ojo Cantonment. These schools frequently engage in interfaith collaborations, promoting unity and cohesion among members.
Nwachukwu added that the Army’s dedication to secularism fosters a professional and inclusive environment where individuals can serve their country without fear of religious discrimination or bias. This approach ensures all officers and soldiers can practice their beliefs in a supportive and respectful setting.
He said the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values of secularism and religious freedom, ensuring all personnel can serve with dignity and respect for their individual beliefs.
