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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army, describing it as a strategic force that continues to safeguard national security while contributing to regional stability and international peace support operations.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima during the Grand Finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 at Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt, President Tinubu praised the Army’s longstanding record of courage, professionalism and operational excellence.

He noted that the Nigerian Army has played a significant role in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty while supporting peace and stability across Africa through regional interventions and United Nations peacekeeping missions.

The President pledged continued government investment in the Army’s modernisation programme, including enhanced troop welfare, the acquisition of advanced capabilities and the integration of emerging technologies to counter evolving security threats. He also welcomed 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 contemporary security challenges.

Referring to this year’s theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” President Tinubu said it reflects the enduring relationship between the Army and the Nigerian people. He paid tribute to fallen servicemen and women, assuring continued support for their families, while highlighting ongoing progress in indigenous defence production, intelligence sharing and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence to improve operational effectiveness.

In his address, Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, commended the Nigerian Army for its contribution to maintaining security across the state and the Niger Delta, particularly in protecting critical national infrastructure and supporting an environment conducive to economic development. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continued cooperation with the Army’s 6 Division.

Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu said the Army remains committed to adapting to emerging security challenges through professionalism, resilience and continuous capability development. He outlined ongoing efforts to modernise the force through new operational platforms, equipment renewal, infrastructure development and enhanced readiness in support of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He also emphasised that addressing today’s complex security environment requires close cooperation between the military, government institutions, international partners and the wider society.

The NADCEL 2026 Grand Finale concluded with a military parade, tactical demonstrations, equipment displays, presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards and a Research and Development Exhibition showcasing the Nigerian Army’s expanding indigenous technological capabilities and innovation programmes.

The ceremony was attended by former Nigerian Presidents, including Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, senior government officials, representatives from Liberia, members of the National and State Assemblies, and former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army Staff.