The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a resolute call for the advancement of transformation and innovation within the Nigerian military to combat the nation’s shifting security landscape.
Speaking on Tuesday, the 16th of December, 2025, in Abuja during the Fourth Quarter Armed Forces of Nigeria Transformation and Innovation Seminar, the defense chief underscored the urgency of evolving military strategies.
Represented by AVM Idi Sani, the Director of Search and Rescue at Defence Headquarters, Gen. Oluyede characterized the current push for institutional change as “an operational necessity, not an option,” arguing that the complexities of modern conflict require a force that is both versatile and proactive.
Addressing the multifaceted nature of current dangers, Gen. Oluyede pointed out that the lines between traditional and modern combat are increasingly blurred. He observed that “The global security landscape is shifting rapidly, with conventional and non-conventional threats intersecting in unprecedented ways, including terrorism, insurgency, cyber warfare and information operations.” To counter these threats, he maintained that the military must undergo a fundamental shift in its approach to hardware and strategy, stating that “Maintaining operational superiority requires continuous review of military doctrines, modernisation of platforms, expansion of capabilities and the integration of emerging technologies into defence operations.”
The General identified cutting-edge technology as a primary driver of success on the modern battlefield, noting that tools such as data analytics, AI, and autonomous systems are redefining how wars are fought. He emphasized that the military is committed to fostering homegrown solutions and academic collaborations to stay ahead of the curve. According to the defense chief, the military will continue to focus on local research and development while striving to “invest in capacity-building initiatives to equip personnel with the skills required for future warfare.”
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Central to this vision is the human element of the Armed Forces. Gen. Oluyede stressed that even the most advanced technology cannot replace the spirit of the soldier, making personnel well-being a top priority for his administration. He explained that the leadership’s current strategy is built upon a foundation of administrative excellence and inter-service harmony, noting that “This philosophy guides our collective efforts to strengthen joint operations, deepen inter-service cooperation and build a balanced, resilient and mission-ready force.”
While acknowledging the hurdles facing the military such as budgetary limitations, a reliance on foreign equipment, and the persistent nature of asymmetric warfare the General remained hopeful about the future.
He concluded with a message of optimism, asserting that through dedicated reform and a focus on innovation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria will successfully transition into a technologically sophisticated entity prepared to protect the nation against any threat.