The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has raised concerns over the presence of foreign jihadist groups around Nigeria’s borders, assuring Nigerians that the military is fully prepared to stop any attempt to threaten the country’s security.
Speaking on Monday at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Shaibu said the Army had already noticed signs of foreign terrorist activities near Nigeria’s borders but remained alert and ready to respond.
He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army would overcome the current security challenges, just as it successfully handled previous conflicts, including the World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War and regional peacekeeping missions.
According to him, the Army continues to adapt to new security realities while remaining committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens.
Shaibu noted that more than 80 per cent of Nigerian soldiers are currently deployed across different parts of the country to tackle terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army through modern equipment, emerging technologies and increased investment in local defence production.
He said the government was focused on improving the military’s combat readiness by embracing innovation, expanding research and development, and revitalising the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to boost local production of military equipment.
Tinubu also praised the dedication and sacrifice of Nigerian soldiers, urging them to continue serving the country with professionalism while protecting the rights and dignity of every citizen.
The President described the hosting of the African Land Forces Forum alongside the Army Day celebration as an opportunity to strengthen defence partnerships, intelligence sharing, border security, counter-terrorism efforts and the use of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, in national security.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who also addressed the gathering, congratulated the Nigerian Army on its 163rd anniversary and said hosting the event in Port Harcourt reflected the peaceful and secure nature of the state.
The ceremony was attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, senior military officers and other top government officials.
