The chief of army staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has declared that the Nigerian Army is ramping up its reliance on modern technology, intelligence networks and updated combat systems to combat the nation's shifting security landscape. Oluyede made the statement on Monday during the closing ceremony of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration and the African Land Forces Forum held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The evolving character of security threats demands a military force that is well-trained and equipped with cutting-edge technology to handle modern combat situations, he explained. According to the Army chief, the service has continuously adjusted its tactical approach by upgrading its operational abilities and deepening partnerships with other defence and security bodies.
Sustained field operations, stronger intelligence collection activities and the use of new military hardware have all strengthened the Army's fight against militants, terrorist groups, armed bandits and similar security menaces, Oluyede noted. He emphasised that intelligence and technology now sit at the heart of military operations, helping personnel spot dangers more effectively, act faster and carry out missions with higher accuracy.
The service intends to keep purchasing and deploying advanced weaponry and support systems designed to boost how well troops perform and protect soldiers in the field, the COAS said. His modernisation strategy also puts significant weight on teaching military personnel how to handle sophisticated equipment and handle new types of security problems, he added.
Recent acquisitions will be rolled out in counter-insurgency work, anti-terrorism efforts and broader internal security activities nationwide, according to Oluyede. He underlined that intelligence-led strategies are vital because terrorism and criminal networks are becoming far more complex and unpredictable.
Effective intelligence, cooperation between government agencies and the use of new technological solutions are all essential ingredients, the Army chief stressed. The Nigerian Army will maintain close coordination with the Navy, Air Force and other security organisations to boost how they share intelligence and run combined missions, he said.
Modern warfare now hinges on originality, sharp intelligence work and quick choices, but these must be paired with professional conduct, strong discipline and respect for moral principles, Oluyede noted. The general also urged ordinary Nigerians to step up their help, calling on them to pass reliable information quickly to security forces combating violence and crime.
