FG Reaffirms Commitment To Strengthening Armed Forces At NADCEL 2026 Grand Finale

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Armed Forces through sustained investment in modern military equipment, improved personnel welfare, and intelligence-driven operations to tackle the country’s evolving security challenges.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said the administration remains committed to equipping the military to effectively defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to invest in modern military equipment, personnel welfare, and intelligence-driven operations to ensure lasting peace and national development.

Shettima also paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of officers and soldiers whom he described as defenders of the nation’s unity and democracy.

In his address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said despite evolving threats ranging from insurgency and terrorism to secessionist agitation and transnational crimes, the Nigerian Army has continued to record significant operational successes in safeguarding the nation.

Shaibu noted that the celebration comes at a critical period when the majority of the Army’s personnel are actively engaged in operations across the country.

“It is important to note that this year’s celebration comes at a crucial period when over 80 per cent of Nigerian Army troops are fully committed to ongoing operations to combat the diverse security challenges bedevilling our nation,” he said.

The Army Chief assured Nigerians that despite the security situation within the country and across the Sahel region, the Nigerian Army remains vigilant and prepared to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.

“We have already noticed the footprints of foreign enemies across our borders. However, I would like to assure us all that the Nigerian Army is alert and capable of the task,” he said.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness through the deployment of recently acquired equipment and technology.

“We remain committed to maximising the effective use of all recently procured assets and technical enablers to address our contemporary security threats,” he added.

He said ongoing barracks renovation projects, improved training, and enhanced welfare initiatives reflect the Army leadership’s commitment to building a more capable, motivated, and professional force.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has commended the Nigerian Army for choosing Port Harcourt to host the historic celebration.

The governor noted that hosting this magnitude of event shows that the state is secure.

“To host such an event with these dignitaries shows that the state is secure, not what they say on the news or social media,” Fubara said.

He praised the military’s contributions to peace and security in Rivers State and the Niger Delta and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with security agencies to guarantee safety for residents and investors.

“I want to use this opportunity to appeal for better welfare for military personnel. I am hoping this administration will look into it,” he added.

The grand finale marked the climax of week-long activities commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 163rd Anniversary Celebration, with military ceremonies, tactical displays, and the exhibition of newly acquired military hardware and operational platforms.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the display of newly acquired military hardware and operational platforms by different formations and units of the Nigerian Army.

The event was attended by chiefs of the army from fifteen countries, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former chiefs of army staff, former defence ministers, retired senior military officers, traditional rulers, government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps.

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