Army Chief Shaibu Advocates AI-Driven Security Strategy To Tackle Evolving Threat
Adedokun Waliyu
2 min read
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s ability to tackle increasingly complex security challenges.
He made the call during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Lecture held in Port Harcourt, a day after inaugurating several welfare and operational projects at Bori Camp as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary.
Speaking on the theme, “Protecting the People and the Dynamics of Nigeria’s National Security: Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” Shaibu said Nigeria’s security environment has become more complicated and now demands innovative ideas, modern strategies and stronger collaboration among security stakeholders.
According to him, the country’s security threats now go beyond insurgency, terrorism and banditry to include cyber warfare, transnational organised crime, resource-related conflicts and technology-driven threats.
He said the Nigerian Army has continued to improve intelligence gathering, strengthen cooperation with other security agencies and invest in modern technology and personnel development to enhance operational efficiency.
Shaibu stressed that the future of the Nigerian Army depends on continuous transformation through innovation, professionalism and collaboration.
He specifically advocated the use of artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems (drones) and data analytics to improve situational awareness, decision-making and operational effectiveness.
The Army Chief also reaffirmed the military’s “Soldier First” philosophy, emphasising that the welfare, motivation and ethical conduct of soldiers remain central to the Army’s transformation agenda.
He described soldiers as the institution’s greatest asset, noting that protecting their welfare is essential to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring effective military operations.
The keynote lecture was delivered by former Chief of Army Staff, retired General Martin Luther Agwai, who also urged the Nigerian Army to continually adapt to emerging security threats through innovation, professionalism and stronger civil-military cooperation.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards to deserving individuals for their contributions during the anniversary celebrations, followed by an interactive session where Lieutenant General Shaibu answered questions from journalists on troop welfare, military reforms, the use of emerging technologies in operations and preparations for the grand finale of the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary celebration in Port Harcourt.
