The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has stressed urgent need for fresh perspectives, innovative strategies, and adaptive approaches to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
Lieutenant General Shaibu made the call at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, NADCEL 2026 Lecture with the theme ” Protecting the people and the dynamics of Nigerian’s National Security; Way forward for the Nigerian Army” held on Saturday 4 July at Obiwali International Conference, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Army Chief who described the lecture as apt following the security challenges facing the country said the way forward for the Nigerian Army lies in continuous transformation guided by professionalism,collaboration and technological advancement.
” The realities confronting Nigeria’s national security are complex and multifaceted. We face asymmetric threats ranging from insurgency, banditry, and terrorism to cyber warfare, transnational organized crimes, and resource-driven conflicts.
“In recent years, the Nigerian Army has responded with adaptive strategies, strengthening joint operations with sister security agencies while enhancing intelligence gathering and deepening our community engagements.
“We have also invested in modern technology, capacity building, and targeted kinetic and non-kinetic operations to disrupt the activities of criminal elements, resolve conflict, restore peace, and build public confidence in affected regions within our country.
“We must embrace emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems, and data analytics to enhance our situational awareness and operational effectiveness” he said.
The COAS thanked the guest speaker and former Chief of Army Staff, retired General Martin Luther Agwai for the robust lecture which he said provided valuable insights and strategic perspectives to further strengthen collective response in addressing the current and emerging security challenges in the country.
“As we come together, we are reminded that the security and progress of our nation rests not only on the shoulders of our Armed Forces, but also on the collective will of every Nigerian.
“Strengthening partnership with regional and international allies and the private sector is vital to addressing cross-border threats and sharing best practices” the Army Chief said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu used the occasion to commend the courage and sacrifice of both past and present officers and soldiers who have stood resolute in the face of adversity.
