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

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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu

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

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This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, on Saturday in Abuja.

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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