By Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said the Nigerian Army is intensifying investments in technology, intelligence capabilities and modern combat equipment as part of efforts to strengthen its capacity to confront the country’s increasingly complex security challenges.
Speaking at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt on Monday, the Army Chief said the changing nature of security threats demands a military that is not only professionally trained but also equipped with modern technologies capable of responding effectively to contemporary warfare.
He noted that the Nigerian Army has continued to adapt to emerging threats by modernising its operational capabilities while improving collaboration with other security agencies.
According to him, the Army has recorded significant successes against insurgents, terrorists, bandits and other armed groups through sustained operational pressure, enhanced intelligence gathering and the deployment of modern military assets.
Shaibu explained that investments in intelligence and technology have become central to the Army’s operational strategy, enabling troops to identify threats more accurately, respond faster and conduct operations with greater precision.
He said the service would continue to acquire and effectively deploy modern combat equipment and force enablers to enhance battlefield effectiveness and improve the safety of personnel during operations.
The COAS said the Army’s modernisation drive extends beyond the acquisition of equipment to include improved training programmes designed to ensure that officers and soldiers are able to effectively operate sophisticated military platforms and adapt to evolving security environments.
He stressed that the Army remains committed to maximising the operational value of recently procured assets by ensuring they are efficiently integrated into ongoing counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism and internal security operations across the country.
The Army Chief also highlighted the importance of intelligence-driven operations, noting that the increasing complexity of terrorism and other forms of organised violence requires timely intelligence, inter-agency cooperation and the application of advanced technologies.
He said the Nigerian Army would continue to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to improve information sharing and coordinate joint operations against criminal and terrorist groups.
Shaibu observed that modern warfare is increasingly shaped by innovation, intelligence fusion and rapid decision-making, making technology an indispensable component of military success.
He added that while equipment and technology are vital, they must be complemented by professionalism, discipline and adherence to ethical standards.
The COAS reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to transforming itself into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency operational environment.
He also appealed for continued public support, stressing that meaningful security outcomes require cooperation between the military and citizens, particularly through the provision of credible and timely intelligence.
According to him, the Army’s investments in technology, intelligence and human capacity development are intended not only to improve operational performance but also to ensure the protection of lives, territorial integrity and national stability in the face of evolving security threats.