The Nigerian Army has addressed a misleading viral report that falsely claims the Army promotes religious bigotry and only supports Islamic faith. Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, clarified the Army’s stance on religious diversity and secularism in a recent statement.
The viral report inaccurately suggested that the Nigerian Army’s School of Islamic Affairs is the only religious institution within the Army and that the organization endorses one religion over others.
Major General Nwachukwu strongly rejected these claims.
“The Nigerian Army is a secular professional institution that upholds the principle of religious freedom for all its personnel. This propaganda does not reflect the true values of our esteemed institution,” he stated.
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Nwachukwu emphasized that the Nigerian Army supports the practice of all religions equally.
“Our commitment to secularism guarantees that all personnel can practice their faiths without bias or endorsement of a specific religion,” he explained.
The Nigerian Army operates multiple religious training schools to support its diverse personnel. Alongside the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs in Ikeja, Lagos, there is also the Nigerian Army Protestant Training School in Yaba and the Nigerian Army Chaplain Catholic Training School in Ojo Cantonment.
These institutions work together to promote unity and respect among soldiers of different faiths.
“These schools engage in interfaith collaborations to foster cohesion among our members,” Nwachukwu said.
The Nigerian Army’s approach ensures that all officers and soldiers can serve their country while practicing their beliefs in a respectful and supportive environment.
“We are dedicated to maintaining a professional and inclusive environment where everyone can serve with dignity and respect for their individual beliefs,” Nwachukwu affirmed.