Tinubu Hails Nigerian Army as Strategic Force in National, Regional Security

By Harriet Tornguvan 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Nigerian Army as a strategic force whose legacy of courage, professionalism and resilience continues to strengthen peace, stability and security in Nigeria, across Africa and on the global stage.

The President made the remarks on Monday during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 held at the Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu said the Nigerian Army remains a critical pillar of the nation's security architecture and a respected contributor to regional and international peace support operations.

He noted that from its early participation in global conflicts to its leadership in regional military interventions and United Nations peacekeeping missions, the Army has consistently demonstrated discipline, operational excellence and commitment to safeguarding Nigeria's sovereignty while promoting peace across Africa and beyond.

The President reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to strengthening the Army through sustained investment in modernisation, improved welfare for personnel and the acquisition of advanced military capabilities to confront emerging security threats.

He also commended the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, describing it as a strategic platform for deepening military cooperation, encouraging innovation and enhancing collective responses to contemporary security challenges across the continent.

Speaking on the theme of NADCEL 2026, "Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army," Tinubu said it reflects the enduring relationship between the military and the Nigerian people.

He paid tribute to fallen military personnel whose sacrifices, he said, have preserved Nigeria's unity and territorial integrity, assuring that the Federal Government would continue to support their families. The President further praised ongoing efforts to boost indigenous defence production, strengthen intelligence sharing and deploy emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve operational effectiveness.

In his address, the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, applauded the Nigerian Army for its role in maintaining peace and security in Rivers State and the Niger Delta. He credited the Army with protecting critical national assets, supporting law enforcement and creating a stable environment for economic activities to thrive.

Fubara reaffirmed his administration's commitment to sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Army, particularly the 6 Division, in tackling security challenges and preserving stability across the Niger Delta region.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army's responsibility goes beyond winning battles to sustaining peace, defending national interests and securing the country's future.

He stressed that the Army would continue to pursue an ambitious modernisation programme centred on enhanced operational capabilities, acquisition of modern equipment, infrastructure development and deployment of advanced military platforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Shaibu also emphasised that addressing today's complex security challenges requires stronger collaboration among the military, government institutions, international partners and citizens through a whole-of-society approach.

The grand finale featured colourful military parades, tactical demonstrations, equipment displays and the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards to outstanding personnel. A research and development exhibition showcasing indigenous military innovations and technological advancements also underscored the Army's growing capacity to meet present and future security demands.

The event attracted an array of distinguished guests, including former Heads of State Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, the Special Adviser to the President of Liberia, members of the National and State Assemblies, as well as former Chiefs of Defence Staff and former Chiefs of Army Staff.