President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deploying artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, saying innovation will play a central role in tackling terrorism, insurgency and other evolving threats.
The President said his government is pursuing a comprehensive modernisation of the Nigerian Army by investing in advanced technology, expanding indigenous defence production and enhancing the operational capacity of the Armed Forces.
Tinubu made the declaration on Monday at the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The event, themed *”Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,”* was attended by senior military officers, government officials and foreign delegates.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said the changing nature of security challenges demands the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and sustained investment in military capability.
“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the adoption of emerging technologies and the building of capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness.
“Accordingly, efforts aimed at sustained research and development in the Armed Forces, advancing technology and strengthening homegrown innovations are steadily progressing.
“The revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria stands at the heart of this ambition, and the partnership represented by this forum promises fresh momentum for local production, the creation of skilled employment, and the confidence that grows from a nation able to arm itself.”
Tinubu said the Federal Government is determined to transform the Nigerian Army into a technologically advanced force capable of responding effectively to contemporary security challenges while strengthening Nigeria’s leadership in defence diplomacy across Africa.
“This administration is committed to modernising our Army to enhance its capacity to meet contemporary security challenges. We therefore align with the aims of the organisers of this event to amplify Nigeria’s leadership in defence diplomacy and enhance our Army’s operational capabilities through shared expertise.
“And we equally share in the vision to advance security solutions and drive economic opportunities. To this end, successive governments have made efforts to reposition the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the coming on board of the African Land Forces Forum to promote the growth of our defence industries is a welcome development.
“It is my hope that this strategic partnership will greatly boost the capacity of DICON to produce high-end combat equipment with bright prospects for operational effectiveness and local content development.”
The President praised officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their dedication and sacrifices in defending the country, urging them to remain committed to protecting citizens and upholding the highest professional standards.
“To the officers and men of the Nigerian Army, you carry a trust that few are asked to bear, and you carry it with an honour that steadies the whole nation.
“Serve the people with the same devotion you bring to defending them, for the uniform commands respect only when it protects the weak and upholds the dignity of every citizen.
“The future we seek—a secure and prosperous Nigeria within a stable and confident Africa—will be won by the discipline, sacrifice and unity that this gathering represents,” even as he congratulated the Nigerian Army on its 163rd anniversary.”
He also paid tribute to the military’s longstanding contribution to national and international peacekeeping operations, describing the nation’s security personnel as the unseen guardians of everyday life.
“Across the arc of our history, Nigerian soldiers stood firm when the nation was most vulnerable and held the line so that ordinary life might continue.
“In markets and classrooms, on farms and along the quiet roads of our communities, the peace that citizens enjoy is the harvest of vigilance kept far from public view, often at the cost of everything a person holds dear.”
Highlighting the significance of the African Land Forces Forum, Tinubu said the gathering provides an opportunity for stronger military cooperation among African nations in confronting common security threats.
He noted that the collaboration would improve intelligence sharing, strengthen border security, support counter-terrorism efforts and encourage regional defence initiatives while opening new opportunities in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
“The partnership will also create avenues for intelligence sharing and coordination among nations, collaboration on border security, capacity building for counter-terrorism operations, and the establishment of regional standby forces.
“Other areas of mutual benefit lie in promoting cybersecurity resilience, addressing climate-induced security risks, and exploring the opportunities that artificial intelligence presents for national security. It is my hope that your interactions cover these areas,” he stated.
The President also honoured members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives in service to the nation, assuring their families that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“Their courage lives in the freedom we enjoy, and the families they left behind remain a sacred responsibility of this nation. Their sacrifices will not be in vain, and their families will not be forgotten.”
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army has continued to evolve in response to changing security realities while remaining committed to defending the country’s sovereignty.
According to him, the Army remains guided by the values of courage, loyalty, honour and selfless service.
“This celebration is also a reaffirmation of our commitment to protecting the nation and serving the people, regardless of the challenges of any era.”
Shaibu disclosed that the Army had detected the activities of foreign jihadist elements around Nigeria’s borders but assured citizens that the military remains prepared to prevent any threat to the country’s territorial integrity.
“It is important to note that this year’s celebration comes at a crucial period when over 80 per cent of Nigerian troops are fully committed to ongoing operations to combat the diverse security challenges bedevilling our dear nation.
“It is also worth noting that the Nigerian Army is not oblivious to the dire security situation in neighbouring countries across the Sahel region.
“We have already noticed the footprints of foreign jihadists across our borders. However, I would like to assure us all that the Nigerian Army is alert and equal to the task. Like our forebears who successfully dealt with the challenges of their generations during the two World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War and the ECOMOG missions, the Nigerian Army of today will certainly prevail in confronting the security challenges of our generation.”
Also speaking, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara described the hosting of the Army Day celebration in Port Harcourt as evidence of improving security in the state.
He commended the professionalism of Nigerian troops and appealed for greater attention to the welfare of military personnel, pledging the continued support of the Rivers State Government for the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs and senior government officials.
