NADCEL 2026: COAS reaffirms Army’s readiness against emerging security threats

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and confronting emerging security threats.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, on Saturday.

Anele said Shaibu spoke at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Lecture in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The COAS described the lecture as a strategic platform for examining Nigeria’s evolving security environment and strengthening efforts towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation.

He said Nigeria’s security landscape had become increasingly complex due to insurgency, terrorism, banditry, cyber warfare, organised crime and resource-based conflicts.

Shaibu also identified instability in the Lake Chad Basin, Sahel and Gulf of Guinea as major regional security concerns.

He noted that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities, were reshaping contemporary battle space.

According to him, the evolving threats require a Nigerian Army that is agile, adaptive, innovative, and operationally prepared.

Speaking on the theme of the lecture, Shaibu described the discourse as timely and relevant to the Army’s ongoing transformation efforts.

He commended the guest speaker, retired General Martin Luther Agwai, for his presentation and appreciated the discussants for their valuable contributions.

The COAS said the Army had strengthened operational effectiveness through intelligence-led operations and joint collaboration with other security agencies.

He added that the Service had also enhanced civil-military cooperation and integrated emerging technologies into its operations.

Shaibu said the Army remained committed to a people-centred operational philosophy anchored on human rights, civilian protection and adherence to the Rules of Engagement.

He identified innovation, professionalism, strategic partnerships, and technological advancement as critical to achieving enduring national security.

The COAS also said the institutionalisation of the Soldier-First Culture remained a force multiplier for operational excellence.

He commended officers and soldiers for their sacrifices and dedication in defending the nation’s territorial integrity.

Shaibu also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, sister services, security agencies, development partners, and Nigerians for supporting the Army’s operations.

Earlier, the Special Guest of Honour, retired Major General Felix Mujakperuo, described the Nigerian Army as a key pillar of national peace, stability and development.

Mujakperuo said the Army’s ongoing modernisation would enhance its capacity to tackle emerging security threats through intelligence-driven and technology-enabled operations.