Tinubu vows to deploy AI, new technology against insecurity

President Bola Tinubu has announced that his administration will deploy artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to improve Nigeria’s fight against insecurity and strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army.

The President made this known on Monday during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Tinubu said the Federal Government is working to improve military planning and combat readiness through the use of modern technology, research and innovation. He explained that efforts are ongoing to build stronger capacity across different operational areas while improving the Armed Forces’ ability to respond to current security threats.

He said the government is also focused on modernising the Nigerian Army so it can better handle the country’s security challenges. According to him, the ongoing revival of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria is expected to strengthen local production of military equipment, create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign-made defence materials.

The President said collaboration with the African Land Forces Forum would further improve local defence production and increase the country’s ability to manufacture advanced military equipment for security operations.

Tinubu praised officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their commitment and sacrifices in protecting the country. He urged them to continue serving Nigerians with professionalism while defending the lives and rights of citizens across the country.

He also paid tribute to fallen military personnel, saying their sacrifices would always be remembered and that the government would continue to support their families.

The President noted that the partnership created through the African Land Forces Forum would improve intelligence sharing among participating countries, strengthen border security, support counter-terrorism efforts and encourage cooperation on cybersecurity, climate-related security threats and the use of artificial intelligence in national defence.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said more than 80 per cent of Nigerian troops are currently involved in various operations against security threats across the country.

He disclosed that the Army is monitoring the activities of foreign jihadist groups operating around Nigeria’s borders and assured Nigerians that troops are fully prepared to prevent any threat from spreading into the country.

Shaibu said the Army remains committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its territorial integrity and safeguarding the lives of citizens despite the growing security challenges within the region.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara also congratulated the Nigerian Army on its 163rd anniversary. He described the decision to host the celebration in Rivers State as proof that the state remains peaceful and secure.

Fubara commended the Army for its professionalism and dedication to national security. He also called for better welfare for military personnel and assured the Army and other security agencies of the continued support of the Rivers State Government.

The event was attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Chief of Defence Staff and several senior military officers, government officials and other dignitaries.