The Nigerian Army showcased its airborne capabilities with a high-altitude parachute display during the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), as military skydivers jumped from a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft at about 12,000 feet above sea level.
The display formed part of activities marking the Army’s 163rd anniversary, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Skydivers demonstrate airborne capability
Videos shared by the Nigerian Army and circulated on social media captured the soldiers exiting the rear ramp of the moving aircraft before deploying their parachutes and landing safely near the parade ground.
The demonstration highlighted the Army’s operational readiness and the coordination between the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force during airborne operations.
Part of NADCEL 2026 activities
NADCEL 2026 featured military parades, tactical demonstrations, veterans’ recognition, medical outreach programmes and civil-military engagement activities.
The event was held under the theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to professionalism and national security during the celebrations, while Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at key events.
Mixed reactions online
The skydiving display attracted praise from many Nigerians, who commended the soldiers’ courage, discipline and level of training.
Others, however, urged the military to focus more on tackling insecurity across the country, saying such demonstrations should be matched with improved security operations.
No incidents were reported during the parachute exercise, which military authorities described as part of efforts to showcase the Nigerian Army’s evolving capabilities.
Thrilling moment as Nigerian Army skydivers exit a C-130 aircraft at 12,000 feet during NADCEL 2026
— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) July 7, 2026
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