President Bola Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Army as a formidable force whose legacy of courage and professionalism, continues to shape peace, stability and security across Nigeria, Africa and the global stage.

The President described the Nigerian Army as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s security architecture and a respected contributor to international peace support operations.

He gave the commendation on Monday at the Grand Finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, held at Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the President noted that from its early engagements in global conflicts to its leadership in regional interventions and United Nations peacekeeping missions, the Nigerian Army has consistently demonstrated resilience, discipline and operational excellence.

He affirmed that those contributions have not only safeguarded Nigeria’s sovereignty but also reinforced peace and stability across Africa and beyond.

Tinubu pledged sustained support for the Army’s modernisation drive, enhanced troop welfare and the acquisition of advanced capabilities to address evolving security threats. He also commended the successful hosting of the African Land Forces Forum, describing it as a strategic platform that deepens international military cooperation, fosters innovation and strengthens collective responses to emerging security challenges.

On the theme of NADCEL 2026, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” Tinubu said it captures the enduring bond of trust between the Nigerian Army and the citizens it serves.

He paid tribute to fallen heroes whose sacrifices have preserved the nation’s unity and assured that their families would continue to receive government support and applauded ongoing efforts in indigenous defence production, intelligence sharing and the integration of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to enhance operational effectiveness.

In his remarks, Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, commended the Nigerian Army for its steadfast role in maintaining peace and security in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.

Fubara acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Army to protecting critical national assets, sustaining law and order and creating an enabling environment for economic growth, reaffirming his administration’s continued support for the Nigerian Army.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, emphasised that the Nigerian Army’s responsibility extends beyond battlefield victories to sustaining peace, defending national interests and securing the future of the nation.

According to him, the Army remains resolute in adapting to evolving threats through professionalism, resilience and patriotism.

The COAS reiterated that the Nigerian Army would continue to pursue a robust modernisation agenda focused on enhanced capabilities, renewal of equipment, infrastructure development and the induction of advanced operational platforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

NADCEL 2026 was attended by former Presidents, including General Yakubu Gowon, General Olusegun Obasanjo, Chiefs of Army Staff from 17 African countries, Special Adviser to the president of Liberia, members of the national and state house of assembly as well as former Chiefs of Defence Staff and former Chiefs Army Staff among others.