The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and promoting democratic stability across Africa as the force prepares to celebrate its 163rd anniversary.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday ahead of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi, said the Army remains steadfast in confronting the country’s evolving security challenges.
He noted that troops across various theatres of operation have continued to tackle terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist threats and other criminal activities with professionalism and resilience.
According to the Army Chief, the service has intensified efforts to modernise its operational capabilities while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies to enhance national security.
“We shall continue to discharge our constitutional duties in line with the rules of engagement and with full respect for human rights as guaranteed by the Constitution and recognised international principles,” he said.
Reflecting on his seven months in office, Shaibu highlighted significant achievements in military operations, infrastructure development, manpower growth, professionalism and civil-military relations.
He explained that his command philosophy is centred on building a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient Army capable of effectively carrying out its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency security framework.
As part of efforts to boost manpower, the Army has established an additional training depot in Amasiri Edda, increasing the number of training institutions to three. The initiative is expected to facilitate the recruitment and training of an additional 28,000 soldiers to strengthen ongoing operations nationwide.
The Army has also expanded its operational footprint through the creation of new brigades and units, the acquisition of modern combat equipment and the enhancement of strategic partnerships aimed at improving effectiveness on the battlefield.
Shaibu stressed that personnel welfare remains a top priority under the Army’s “Soldier-First” culture, describing the wellbeing of troops as essential to operational success.
Tracing the Army’s roots to the “Glover Hausas” established in 1863, he said the institution has evolved into a highly professional force dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty while contributing to regional peace and democratic development.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we must recognise the vital role the Nigerian Army has played and continues to play in maintaining peace and supporting democratic processes across the Sub-Saharan region,” he said.
The Army Chief announced that the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” will take place in Port Harcourt from July 1 to July 6.
Activities scheduled for the week-long event include special prayers, public lectures, medical outreach programmes, community development projects, literary awards, media engagements, research and development exhibitions, and a grand finale parade.
The celebration will also host the African Land Forces Forum (AFRILAFF) 2026, bringing together army chiefs, defence industry stakeholders, policymakers and security experts from across the continent to discuss regional security cooperation and emerging defence technologies.
Shaibu called on the media to continue supporting national security efforts through balanced and responsible reporting, while urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding and work closely with security agencies in the interest of peace and national development.
“The Nigerian Army belongs to Nigerians. Let us all demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the ideals of peace and unity for national development,” he said.
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