Nigerian Army Pledges Decisive Action Against Foreign Jihadists at Borders

The Nigerian Army has announced that it has identified the movements of foreign jihadist groups along the nation’s borders and has vowed to confront the threat decisively.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made this commitment on Monday during the grand finale of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Addressing the security landscape, General Shaibu emphasized that the military is fully alert and prepared to neutralize these emerging threats, drawing parallels to the force’s historical success in overcoming past national and regional conflicts.

The event, which marked the Army’s 163rd anniversary, was attended by top government officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu.

In his address, President Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing the military. He highlighted plans to adopt emerging technologies, enhance combat readiness, and bolster indigenous defense production. A key pillar of this strategy is the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), which the President noted is essential for achieving national self-reliance in armaments.

The celebration also served as a platform for the African Land Forces Forum, with officials emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity.

Reflecting on the ongoing security efforts, leadership noted that a vast majority of Nigerian troops are currently deployed in operations nationwide. The event concluded with tributes to fallen soldiers and a renewed call for the continued professionalization and welfare of military personnel as they work to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.