PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — July 4, 2026 — The Nigerian Army is accelerating its shift toward technology-driven and intelligence-led operations to confront evolving security threats, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said.
Speaking at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Lecture in Port Harcourt, Shaibu outlined a transformation agenda focused on innovation, multi-agency collaboration and modern warfare capabilities.
He said the changing nature of threats — including insurgency, terrorism, cyber warfare and transnational crime — requires a more adaptive and forward-looking military strategy.
“These realities demand a Nigerian Army that is agile, adaptive, innovative and operationally prepared to confront both present and future threats,” he said.
The army chief highlighted the growing impact of artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities on modern conflict, noting that the military is integrating emerging technologies to strengthen operational effectiveness.
He added that intelligence-led operations and closer collaboration with other security agencies remain central to ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the country.
Shaibu also stressed the importance of a people-centric approach, saying the Army remains committed to protecting civilians and upholding human rights while prosecuting operation
“The Service remains firmly committed to a people-centric operational philosophy, guided by respect for human rights and strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement,” he stated.
The lecture, themed “Protecting the People and the Dynamics of Nigeria’s National Security: Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” brought together experts to examine strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
Shaibu commended officers and soldiers for their continued sacrifices and acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and security partners in enhancing military capacity.
Earlier, the Special Guest of Honour, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), said the Army’s ongoing modernisation drive is positioning it to better anticipate and respond to emerging threats through intelligence-driven and technology-enabled operations.
The NADCEL lecture forms part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, providing a platform for strategic reflection on national defence priorities.
