We’ll Deploy AI To Strengthen Nigeria’s Security – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deploying artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, saying the Armed Forces will be better equipped to confront the country’s evolving security challenges.

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

Tinubu said his government was focused on modernising the Nigerian Army by embracing innovation, improving operational capacity and enhancing the combat readiness of troops through technology-driven solutions.

“My administration is firmly committed to countering contemporary threats through the adoption of emerging technologies and the building of capacity across all battle spaces, thereby improving operational planning and combat readiness,” he said.

He disclosed that efforts to strengthen research, technology and indigenous innovation within the Armed Forces were already in progress, with the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria serving as a key component of the administration’s defence strategy.

According to the President, the renewed investment in the defence industry is expected to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported military hardware while encouraging the local production of sophisticated combat equipment through strategic partnerships.

“This administration is committed to modernising our Army to enhance its capacity to meet contemporary security challenges,” Tinubu added, expressing confidence that collaboration with both local and international partners would significantly improve the operational effectiveness of the military.

The President also stressed the growing importance of artificial intelligence in modern warfare and national security, noting that cooperation through the African Land Forces Forum would strengthen intelligence sharing, improve border security, enhance counter-terrorism efforts and build cyber resilience across the continent.

He said the forum would also provide an opportunity for participating countries to explore how artificial intelligence could be effectively deployed to address emerging security threats.

Tinubu commended officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices in defending the country’s territorial integrity and maintaining internal security despite mounting challenges.

He urged them to remain professional and uphold the highest standards in the discharge of their duties.

“Serve the people with the same devotion you bring to defending them, for the uniform commands respect only when it protects the weak and upholds the dignity of every citizen,” the President said.