The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to protecting the country's sovereignty and addressing emerging security threats, saying the force would continue to modernise its operations and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies.

Speaking at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Army chief said the Nigerian Army remained steadfast in its constitutional responsibility to defend Nigeria's territorial integrity and safeguard the lives and aspirations of its citizens.

He said the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, themed "Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army," reflects the force's enduring commitment to national security and public service.

According to him, the Nigerian Army is commemorating 163 years of service since its establishment in 1863, having continued to evolve over the decades to meet changing security demands while upholding the values of selfless service, loyalty, honour, courage and sacrifice.

Listen: excerpts from the Army Day address

The Army chief paid tribute to fallen soldiers who lost their lives in defence of Nigeria's sovereignty, describing their sacrifice as the foundation of the nation's unity and peace. He said the Army had continued to demonstrate resilience and professionalism both within and outside Nigeria, noting that lessons from its history had strengthened its resolve to confront emerging security challenges.