The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has brought together army chiefs and senior defence officials from across Africa in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to strengthen military cooperation and address the continent’s evolving security challenges.
The gathering forms part of the Third African Land Forces Forum, held alongside the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. Military leaders from several African countries, including Angola, Cameroon, Ghana, Liberia, Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and others, are participating in the event.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Lieutenant General Shaibu described Nigeria’s hosting of the forum as a reflection of the country’s commitment to promoting regional unity, collective security, and lasting peace across Africa.
He explained that combining the African Land Forces Forum with NADCEL 2026 provides an opportunity to honour the Nigerian Army’s history while strengthening partnerships with allied African militaries.
Shaibu noted that the Nigerian Army, which traces its origins to 1863, has developed into one of Africa’s leading land forces. He added that the annual Nigerian Army Day Celebration continues to recognise the sacrifices of fallen soldiers while reaffirming the military’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and national service.
According to the Army Chief, the forum was established to encourage dialogue, improve cooperation, and facilitate the exchange of operational experiences among African armed forces.
He said the initiative is designed to enhance interoperability, build lasting military partnerships, and develop coordinated responses to common threats such as terrorism, insurgency, and transnational organised crime.
Shaibu also stressed that the continent’s security threats have become increasingly complex and often extend beyond national borders, making stronger regional collaboration essential.
Drawing from Nigeria’s counterterrorism experience, he highlighted the country’s operations against Boko Haram and other extremist groups, noting that improved military strategies, specialised training, effective air operations, and the activities of the Multinational Joint Task Force have played a significant role in weakening insurgent groups and recovering territories in the Lake Chad Basin.
