Tinubu introduced an AI-based security strategy, and vowed to strengthen the Army in the face of emerging threats

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to deploying artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, saying innovation will play a critical role in tackling terrorism, insurgency and other growing threats.

The President said his administration is pursuing comprehensive modernization of the Nigerian Army by investing in advanced technology, expanding domestic defense production and enhancing the operational capacity of the Armed Forces.

Tinubu made the declaration on Monday at the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebrations (NADCEL) held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The event with the theme *”Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,”* was attended by senior military officers, government officials and foreign delegates.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said the changing nature of security challenges demands the adoption of advanced technologies and continued investment in military capabilities.

“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the application of new technologies and increased capacity across all battlespaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness.

“Therefore, efforts aimed at carrying out continuous research and development in the Armed Forces, advancing technology, and strengthening domestic innovation continue to progress.

“The revitalization of the Nigerian Defense Industries Corporation is at the heart of this ambition, and the partnership represented by this forum promises new momentum for local production, the creation of skilled jobs, and the growing confidence of a country capable of arming itself.”

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Tinubu said the Federal Government is determined to transform the Nigerian Army into a technologically advanced force capable of responding effectively to contemporary security challenges while strengthening Nigeria’s leadership in defense diplomacy across Africa.

“This administration is committed to modernizing our Army to enhance its capacity to meet contemporary security challenges. We are therefore aligned with the objectives of the organizers of this event to strengthen Nigeria’s leadership in defense diplomacy and enhance the operational capabilities of our Army through shared expertise.

“And we share the same vision to advance security solutions and drive economic opportunities. To achieve this goal, successive governments have made efforts to reposition the Defense Industrial Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and joining the African Army Forum to drive the growth of our defense industry is a welcome development.

“I hope this strategic partnership will increase DICON’s capacity to produce high-end combat equipment with bright prospects for operational effectiveness and local content development.”

The President commended the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their dedication and sacrifice in defending the country, urging them to remain committed to protecting citizens and upholding the highest professional standards.

“To the officers and personnel of the Nigerian Army, you carried a trust that few were asked to carry, and you carried it with an honor that steadied the entire nation.

“Serve your community with the same devotion you would give to defend them, for a uniform will only command respect if it protects the weak and upholds the dignity of every citizen.

“The future we seek—a safe and prosperous Nigeria in a stable and confident Africa—will be achieved through the discipline, sacrifice and unity that this meeting represents,” even as he congratulated the Nigerian Army on its 163rd anniversary.”

He also paid tribute to the military’s long-term contribution to national and international peacekeeping operations, and described the country’s security personnel as invisible guardians of daily life.

“Throughout our history, the Nigerian army stood firm when the country was most vulnerable and held the line so that daily life could continue.

“In the markets and classrooms, on the farms and along the quiet streets of our communities, the peace that citizens enjoy is the fruit of vigilance kept away from public view, often at the expense of everything one holds dear.”

Highlighting the importance of the African Army Forum, Tinubu said the meeting provides an opportunity for stronger military cooperation among African countries in the face of shared security threats.

He noted that this collaboration will improve intelligence sharing, strengthen border security, support counter-terrorism efforts and advance regional defense initiatives while opening up new opportunities in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

“This partnership will also create opportunities for intelligence exchange and coordination between countries, collaboration on border security, capacity building for counter-terrorism operations, and the establishment of a regional alert force.

“Other areas of mutual benefit are enhancing cybersecurity resilience, addressing climate-induced security risks, and exploring the opportunities that artificial intelligence provides for national security. I hope your interactions will cover these areas,” he said.

The President also paid tribute to TNI members who died in their service to the country, and assured their families that their sacrifice would never be forgotten.

“Their bravery lived in the freedoms we enjoyed, and the families they left behind remain the sacred responsibility of this nation. Their sacrifices will not be in vain, and their families will not be forgotten.”

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army continues to evolve in response to changing security realities while remaining committed to defending the country’s sovereignty.

According to him, the Indonesian Army remains guided by the values ​​of courage, loyalty, honor and selfless service.

“This celebration is also a reaffirmation of our commitment to protect the nation and serve the people, regardless of the challenges of the times.”

Shaibu disclosed that the Army had detected activities of foreign jihadi elements around Nigeria’s borders but assured citizens that the military remained ready to prevent any threat to the country’s territorial integrity.

“It is important to note that this year’s celebrations occur at a crucial period when more than 80 percent of the Nigerian army is fully committed to the ongoing operations to combat the multiple security challenges plaguing our beloved country.

“It is also noteworthy that the Nigerian Army has not forgotten the dire security situation in neighboring countries in the Sahel region.

“We have noticed the footsteps of foreign jihadists on our borders. However, I want to assure us all that the Nigerian Army is alert and ready for duty. Just as our forefathers successfully overcame the challenges of their generation during the two World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War and the ECOMOG mission, the Nigerian Army today will surely emerge victorious in facing the security challenges of our generation.”

Also speaking, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara described the holding of Army Day celebrations in Port Harcourt as evidence of improved security in the state.

He commended the professionalism of the Nigerian troops and called for greater attention to the welfare of military personnel, and pledged continued support from the Rivers State Government to the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The event attracted the attention of several dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief of Defense Staff, service chiefs and senior government officials.