Tinubu Pledges Greater Military Support, Hails Nigerian Army’s Role in Global Peace
By Chimezie Godfrey
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army, describing it as a strategic force whose professionalism and operational excellence continue to bolster peace and security in Nigeria, across Africa and on the global stage.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the President pledged sustained investment in the Army’s modernisation, troop welfare and acquisition of advanced military capabilities to tackle evolving security threats.
”The Nigerian Army has consistently demonstrated resilience, discipline and operational excellence. These contributions have not only safeguarded Nigeria’s sovereignty but also reinforced peace and stability across Africa and beyond,” Tinubu said.
He described the Army as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that its record in regional military interventions and United Nations peacekeeping missions has earned the country global respect.
The President also praised the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, saying it has strengthened international military cooperation, promoted innovation and enhanced collective efforts against emerging security threats.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” Tinubu said it symbolises the enduring trust between the Army and the Nigerian people.
He paid tribute to fallen soldiers, assuring that the Federal Government would continue to support their families while commending the Army’s growing investment in indigenous defence production, intelligence sharing and the deployment of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to improve operational effectiveness.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and adapting to emerging security threats through professionalism, resilience and continuous modernisation.
”Our responsibility extends beyond battlefield victories to sustaining peace, defending national interests and securing the future of the nation,” Shaibu said.
He disclosed that the Army would sustain its modernisation programme through the acquisition of advanced operational platforms, renewal of equipment and infrastructure development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Army Chief stressed that defeating contemporary security challenges requires “a whole-of-society approach,” calling for stronger collaboration among the military, government institutions, international partners and citizens.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, in his remarks, commended the Nigerian Army for its contributions to peace and security in the state and the Niger Delta.
He said the Army’s role in protecting critical national assets and maintaining law and order has created an enabling environment for economic activities to thrive, pledging his administration’s continued support for military operations in the state.
The ceremony featured a colourful military parade, tactical demonstrations, equipment display, presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards to deserving personnel and a Research and Development Exhibition showcasing the Army’s advances in indigenous military technology and innovation.
Among dignitaries at the event were former Heads of State, including Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, Liberia’s Special Adviser to the President, members of the National and State Assemblies, as well as former Chiefs of Defence Staff and former Chiefs of Army Staff.
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