Tinubu Rallies Military, Backs Intelligence-Led Operations to Secure Nigeria

July 7 () — President Bola Tinubu on Monday rallied the Nigerian Armed Forces to intensify intelligence-led and technology-driven operations against insecurity, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modernising the military and equipping it with the capabilities needed to tackle emerging security threats across the country.

The President gave the assurance at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 and the maiden African Land Forces Forum (ALFF), held at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium (Liberation Stadium) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the theme: “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said his administration remained committed to defeating insecurity by deploying intelligence-driven and technology-enabled operations while building the capacity of military personnel to improve operational planning and combat readiness.

“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the adoption of emerging technologies and the building of capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness,” the President said.

He explained that the Federal Government is modernising the Armed Forces through sustained investment in modern military hardware, personnel training, and technological innovation to enhance operational effectiveness across all theatres of operation.

Tinubu said research and development would remain central to his administration’s security agenda, with deliberate efforts to strengthen indigenous innovation and advance home-grown defence technologies.

He identified the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria as a key component of the government’s strategy to boost local production of military hardware, create skilled jobs, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported defence equipment.

According to the President, although previous administrations had attempted to reposition DICON, his government was determined to fully revive the corporation to strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian military in addressing contemporary security challenges.

He added that partnerships such as the African Land Forces Forum would reinforce Nigeria’s ambition to build a self-reliant defence industry capable of producing equipment needed to safeguard national security.

Describing the establishment of the African Land Forces Forum as a significant milestone, Tinubu said it would strengthen defence diplomacy, deepen regional cooperation, and facilitate the exchange of expertise among African militaries.

He commended Great Minds Event Management for partnering with the Nigerian Army to organise the maiden forum, saying the initiative would enhance Nigeria’s leadership in defence cooperation while creating economic opportunities through innovation and strategic partnerships.

The President also praised officers and men of the Armed Forces, describing them as a model of patriotism and selfless service whose sacrifices continue to promote peace and stability within Nigeria and beyond.

“Their devotion to neutralising threats in this part of the world extends beyond our borders. It becomes a real contribution to global security, peace, and stability,” he said.

Tinubu honoured fallen military personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the country, assuring that their families would not be forgotten.

“Their sacrifices will not be in vain, and their families will not be forgotten. Their courage lives in the freedom we breathe, and the families they left behind remain a sacred responsibility of this nation,” he stated.

The President also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for providing the leadership that culminated in the successful hosting of the combined Nigerian Army Day Celebration and African Land Forces Forum, saying the initiative had fostered regional cooperation, innovation, and strategic dialogue on defence and security across Africa.

Earlier, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara described the hosting of the event in Port Harcourt as evidence of the peace and normalcy that have returned to the state despite contrary narratives.

Fubara paid tribute to the Nigerian Army for its commitment to national unity and urged the Federal Government to further improve the welfare and well-being of military personnel.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting the lives and property of citizens, noting that the evolving security environment continues to shape the Army’s operational strategies.

He said the dedication and sacrifices of officers and soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation remain the defining legacy of the current Army leadership, while expressing appreciation to personnel of the Armed Forces for their unwavering service to the nation.

Shaibu also thanked President Tinubu for his continued support for the Nigerian Army and pledged the loyalty of officers and soldiers to the Commander-in-Chief.