Tinubu Vows to Crush Terrorism With Technology and Modern Military

(President Bola Tinubu. Photo Credit; Daily post)

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed his administration’s commitment to deploying technology-driven security operations and modernising the military as part of efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

On Monday, the President reaffirmed his government’s firm resolve to harness emerging technologies to tackle contemporary security threats and safeguard the lives of all Nigerians.

He noted that his administration is actively pursuing the modernisation of the nation’s Armed Forces through investment in modern hardware, alongside building the capacity of military personnel to enhance operational planning and combat readiness.

The President made this known in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, at the Grand Finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026/African Land Forces Forum (ALFF), themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”

Speaking at the Liberation Stadium (Yakubu Gowon Stadium), venue of the maiden dual annual event organised by the Nigerian Army in collaboration with the ALFF, the President represented by the Vice President pledged to end insecurity in Nigeria through intelligence-driven and technology-enabled operations.

He stated that his administration remains firmly committed to countering contemporary threats by adopting emerging technologies and building capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness.

Tinubu also pointed to focused and sustained research and development as a key part of his government’s strategy to advance technological capacity and strengthen home-grown innovation.

To generate fresh momentum for local production of military hardware and the creation of skilled employment, the President said the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), together with the kind of partnership represented by the ALFF, is central to his administration’s ambition to build the confidence that comes from a nation capable of arming itself.

He noted that although previous administrations had attempted to revive DICON, his government is determined to see it through in order to modernise the nation’s army and enhance its capacity to meet contemporary security challenges.

Describing the establishment of the ALFF as a welcome development, Tinubu commended the organisers for their efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s leadership in defence diplomacy and boost the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities through shared expertise, as well as their vision to advance security solutions and drive economic opportunities.

The President praised the nation’s Armed Forces, describing them as a model of selfless service to the people and a source of pride across the African continent, noting that their commitment to neutralising threats in the region extends beyond Nigeria’s borders and constitutes a genuine contribution to global security, peace, and stability.

For the soldiers who lost their lives in the effort to keep Nigeria united, Tinubu gave assurance that their sacrifices would not be in vain and that their families would not be forgotten, adding that their courage lives on in the freedom the nation enjoys, and that the families they left behind remain a sacred responsibility of the state.

The President commended the Chief of Army Staff as well as the event organisers for the vision and steady leadership that made the maiden twin event possible, saying the collaboration had achieved its goal of fostering regional and global cooperation, innovation, and strategic dialogue in defence and security across Africa.

Earlier, the Governor of Rivers State said the event held special significance for the government and people of the state, as it symbolised peace and normalcy in the region, contrary to previous narratives about the area.

He commended the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Army and urged the current administration to do more to improve the welfare and wellbeing of military personnel.

For his part, the Chief of Army Staff said the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate of defending the nation’s territorial integrity and safeguarding the wellbeing of Nigerians, in line with the theme of the 2026 celebration.

Highlighting the evolving security environment and the challenges facing security agencies, he noted that although this trend continues to reshape the army’s operational strategies, the efforts of officers and men across all theatres of operation stand as an enduring legacy under his leadership.

He expressed the nation’s enduring gratitude, as well as that of the Armed Forces’ leadership, to the officers and men of the army and other military branches for their efforts and sacrifices in defending the country. He also conveyed the Nigerian Army’s appreciation to the President for his support to the service and pledged the unwavering loyalty of the officers and men to the President at all times.

A highlight of the occasion was the presentation of Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards, alongside demonstrations and displays by various army units and formations.

Other dignitaries at the event included a former Head of State; a former President; Deputy Governors of Akwa Ibom and Rivers States; the Minister of Defence; the Minister of State for Regional Development; the Chief of Defence Staff; the Chief of Air Staff; former service chiefs; and other senior military officers.