President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has positioned the Nigerian Army as a strategic force whose influence extends beyond Nigeria's borders, reaffirming Federal Government support for military modernisation, troop welfare and advanced capabilities to confront evolving security threats.
Desk: Defence & Security
Date: Monday, 6 July 2026
Time: 14:15 WAT
Location: Port Harcourt, Nigeria
The commitment was conveyed during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt, where Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima represented the President, as contained in a statement issued by Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
President Tinubu described the Nigerian Army as a critical pillar of Nigeria's security architecture and a respected contributor to regional interventions and international peace support operations, noting that its legacy of courage, professionalism and operational excellence has strengthened peace and stability across Africa and beyond.
He said the Federal Government would sustain investments in the Army's modernisation programme through improved welfare, enhanced operational capabilities and the acquisition of advanced technologies needed to address contemporary security challenges.
The President also commended the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, describing it as a strategic platform for deepening military cooperation, promoting innovation and strengthening collective responses to emerging threats.
Reflecting on the 2026 NADCEL theme, "Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army," President Tinubu said it reflects the enduring relationship between the Army and the Nigerian people. He paid tribute to fallen personnel, assuring their families of continued government support while applauding ongoing efforts in indigenous defence production, intelligence sharing and the integration of Artificial Intelligence into military operations.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, commended the Nigerian Army for strengthening peace and stability across the state and the Niger Delta, saying collaboration with 6 Division has helped protect critical national infrastructure, combat insecurity and support economic growth.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Army's responsibility extends beyond battlefield victories to safeguarding national interests and securing Nigeria's future through professionalism, resilience and patriotism.
The Army Chief reaffirmed that the service would continue implementing a modernisation agenda centred on capability enhancement, equipment renewal, infrastructure development and the induction of advanced operational platforms, stressing that lasting security requires sustained collaboration among government institutions, the military, international partners and citizens.
The NADCEL 2026 grand finale featured military parades, tactical demonstrations, equipment displays, presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards and a Research and Development Exhibition showcasing indigenous military innovation and technological advancement.
The ceremony attracted former Heads of State, including Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, senior defence officials, lawmakers and former military chiefs.
🏷️ Tags: NADCEL 2026, Nigerian Army, Bola Tinubu, Kashim Shettima, Waidi Shaibu, Military Modernisation, Defence Strategy, National Security, African Land Forces Forum, Zig Press
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