President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Nigerian Army as a formidable force whose legacy of courage, professionalism and operational excellence continues to promote peace, stability and security in Nigeria, across Africa and on the global stage.
The President made the remarks on Monday during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 held at Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, President Tinubu described the Nigerian Army as a critical pillar of the country’s security architecture and a respected contributor to international peace support operations.
He noted that from its participation in global conflicts to leadership in regional military interventions and United Nations peacekeeping missions, the Army has consistently demonstrated resilience, discipline and professionalism. According to him, these contributions have not only safeguarded Nigeria’s sovereignty but also strengthened peace and stability across Africa and beyond.
The President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the Army’s modernisation, promising sustained investment in troop welfare, advanced military capabilities and equipment to enable the force effectively respond to evolving security threats.
He also praised the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, describing it as an important platform for strengthening international military cooperation, promoting innovation and enhancing collective responses to emerging security challenges.
Speaking on the theme of NADCEL 2026, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” Tinubu said it reflected the enduring bond of trust between the Army and the Nigerian people. He paid tribute to fallen soldiers for their sacrifices in preserving the nation’s unity and assured that their families would continue to receive government support.
The President further commended ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to boost indigenous defence production, improve intelligence sharing and integrate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, into its operations.
In his remarks, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara praised the Nigerian Army for its contributions to peace and security in the state and the wider Niger Delta region. He acknowledged the Army’s role in protecting critical national infrastructure, maintaining law and order and creating an enabling environment for economic development.
Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with the Nigerian Army, noting that its partnership with the 6 Division has been instrumental in addressing security challenges in the region.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Army’s mission extends beyond winning battles to sustaining peace, defending Nigeria’s national interests and securing the country’s future.
He said the service remained committed to adapting to emerging threats through professionalism, resilience and patriotism while pursuing an ambitious modernisation programme focused on enhanced operational capabilities, equipment renewal, infrastructure development and the acquisition of advanced military platforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shaibu stressed that addressing contemporary security challenges requires a whole-of-society approach anchored on collaboration among the military, government institutions, international partners and citizens.
The grand finale of NADCEL 2026 featured military parades, tactical demonstrations, equipment displays and the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards to outstanding personnel. A Research and Development Exhibition showcasing the Nigerian Army’s progress in indigenous innovation and technological advancement also formed part of the event.
Among those in attendance were former Presidents Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, the Special Adviser to the President of Liberia, members of the National and State Houses of Assembly, as well as former Chiefs of Defence Staff and former Chiefs of Army Staff.
