Technology, intelligence key to tackling Nigeria’s evolving security threats — COAS

The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Olufemi Oluyede, has said the Nigerian Army is strengthening its investment in technology, intelligence and modern combat equipment to address the country’s evolving security challenges.

Oluyede made the remarks on Monday at the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, NADCEL, and the African Land Forces Forum in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He said the changing nature of security threats requires a military that is professionally trained and equipped with modern technologies capable of responding to contemporary warfare.

According to the Army Chief, the Nigerian Army has continued to adapt its operational strategies by modernising its capabilities and strengthening collaboration with other security agencies.

He noted that sustained military operations, improved intelligence gathering and the deployment of modern military assets had enhanced the Army’s efforts against insurgency, terrorism, banditry and other security threats.

Oluyede said intelligence and technology have become central to the Army’s operations, enabling troops to identify threats more accurately, respond swiftly and conduct operations with greater precision.

He added that the Army would continue to acquire and deploy modern combat equipment and other force enablers to improve operational effectiveness and enhance the safety of personnel.

The COAS said the Army’s modernisation programme also focuses on training officers and soldiers to operate advanced military platforms and adapt to emerging security challenges.

He stressed that recently acquired equipment would be fully integrated into counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism and other internal security operations across the country.

Oluyede underscored the importance of intelligence-driven operations, saying the growing complexity of terrorism and organised crime requires timely intelligence, inter-agency collaboration and the application of emerging technologies.

He said the Nigerian Army would continue to work closely with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to improve intelligence sharing and coordinate joint operations.

The Army Chief noted that innovation, intelligence and rapid decision-making have become critical elements of modern warfare, adding that technology must be complemented by professionalism, discipline and adherence to ethical standards. 

He also called for continued public support, urging Nigerians to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to strengthen efforts to combat insecurity.