… COAS Calls For Tech-Driven Security Strategy
… Lists Cybercrime, Organised Crime Among New Dangers
Daud Olatunji
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has called for the adoption of artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems and other emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to tackle the country’s rapidly evolving security threats.
Shaibu said the nation’s security landscape had become more sophisticated, extending beyond insurgency, terrorism and banditry to include cyber warfare, transnational organised crime, resource-driven conflicts and other technology-enabled threats.
The army chief made the call on Sunday while delivering a lecture at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, 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 the changing nature of security threats demanded innovation, stronger collaboration among security agencies and sustained investment in modern military capabilities.
He warned that conventional approaches alone would no longer be sufficient to address emerging threats confronting the country.
“Given our rapidly evolving security landscape, which continues to present increasingly complex and dynamic threats, there is an urgent need for fresh perspectives, innovative strategies and adaptive approaches to safeguard the lives, property and well-being of the Nigerian people,” he said.
Shaibu disclosed that the Nigerian Army had intensified intelligence gathering, strengthened inter-agency cooperation and continued investing in technology and personnel development to improve operational effectiveness.
According to him, embracing artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems and data analytics would significantly enhance the military’s situational awareness, decision-making and operational efficiency.
“The way forward for the Nigerian Army lies in continuous transformation guided by innovation, professionalism and collaboration.
“We must embrace emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems and data analytics to enhance our situational awareness and operational effectiveness,” he added.
The COAS also reiterated the army’s commitment to its “Soldier First” philosophy, stressing that the welfare, motivation and ethical conduct of personnel remained central to the institution’s transformation agenda.
He described soldiers as the military’s greatest asset, noting that prioritising their welfare was essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In his keynote address, former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (retd.), urged the Nigerian Army to continually adapt to emerging security realities through innovation, professionalism and stronger civil-military cooperation.
The lecture formed part of activities commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd anniversary and featured the presentation of awards to individuals recognised for their contributions to the service.
The event ended with an interactive media session during which Shaibu addressed questions on troop welfare, ongoing military reforms, the deployment of emerging technologies in operations and preparations for the grand finale of the anniversary celebration scheduled for Monday in Port Harcourt.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
