President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deploying emerging technologies to counter evolving security threats and safeguard the lives of Nigerians.

The President said the Federal Government is accelerating the modernisation of the Armed Forces through sustained investment in advanced military hardware and enhanced personnel training to strengthen operational planning and combat readiness.

Tinubu made the pledge on Monday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, during the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration and the African Land Forces Forum (ALFF), themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”

Speaking at the Liberation Stadium (Yakubu Gowon Stadium), where the inaugural joint annual event was organised by the Nigerian Army in collaboration with ALFF, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, pledged to tackle insecurity through intelligence-led and technology-enabled military operations.

“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the adoption of emerging technologies and the building of capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness,” Tinubu was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Vice President’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.

Tinubu identified sustained investment in research and development as a critical component of his administration’s strategy to advance military technology and strengthen indigenous defence innovation.

He said the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), alongside strategic partnerships such as the ALFF, reflects the government’s commitment to expanding local capacity for military hardware production while creating skilled employment opportunities.

According to the President, although previous administrations had sought to revive DICON, his government remains determined to modernise the corporation to enhance the Nigerian Army’s ability to respond effectively to emerging security challenges.

Tinubu described the establishment of the ALFF as a welcome development and commended Great Minds Event Management for promoting Nigeria’s leadership in defence diplomacy, strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities through knowledge-sharing, and advancing both security solutions and economic opportunities.

He also praised the Armed Forces, describing them as “a model of selfless service to the people and a source of pride across the African continent.”

“Their devotion to neutralising threats in this part of the world extends beyond our borders. It becomes a real contribution to global security, peace, and stability,” he said.

Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, Tinubu assured Nigerians that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

“Their sacrifices will not be in vain, and their families will not be forgotten. Their courage lives in the freedom we breathe, and the families they left behind remain a sacred responsibility of this nation.”

The President also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and Great Minds Event Management for organising the inaugural joint event, saying the initiative had strengthened regional and international cooperation, innovation, and strategic dialogue on defence and security across Africa.

Earlier, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State described the event as significant for the state, saying it reflected the return of peace and normalcy despite negative narratives about Rivers State.

He also paid tribute to the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Army and urged the Federal Government to further improve the welfare of military personnel.

In his remarks, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with the theme of the 2026 celebration.

He said the evolving security environment continues to reshape the Army’s operational strategy, adding that the commitment of officers and soldiers across various theatres of operation remains a defining hallmark of the current military leadership.

Shaibu expressed appreciation to officers and personnel of the Army and other branches of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices in defence of the country.

He also thanked President Tinubu for his continued support for the Army and pledged the unwavering loyalty of officers and personnel to the President.

The event featured the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards, military demonstrations, and displays by various Army units and formations.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.); former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; members of the National Assembly; the Deputy Governors of Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi and Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu; Minister of Defence, Lt.-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.); Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu; Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke; former service chiefs; and senior military officers.