By Our Correspondent

National News – The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for stronger investment in artificial intelligence, robotics, drone warfare, and other emerging defence technologies to improve Nigeria’s military operations and reduce dependence on foreign military imports.

He made the appeal on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Sunday Echono, at the Army Headquarters.

Shaibu said the Nigerian Army plans to deepen collaboration with TETFund through specialised training programmes for officers in modern defence technologies.

According to him, the initiative will help the Army strengthen local defence production, improve operational sustainability, and enhance national security.

The Army Chief explained that evolving security threats across Nigeria require advanced military strategies and stronger partnerships between the military, academic institutions, and research organisations.

He noted that artificial intelligence and robotics are becoming critical tools in modern warfare and national defence operations.

He stated that the Nigerian Army intends to sponsor officers for training in armament technology, drone warfare, artificial intelligence, and robotics to prepare personnel for future security challenges.

Shaibu added that developing local expertise would reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported military equipment and support indigenous innovation.

According to the Army Chief, contemporary security challenges demand a “whole-of-society approach,” where technology, education, and military capability work together to tackle insecurity effectively.

He also praised TETFund for supporting military institutions, including the Nigerian Army University, Biu, and the Nigerian Army College of Management Sciences, Makurdi.

In response, TETFund Executive Secretary Sunday Echono reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He said the partnership would focus on advanced research, military intelligence, innovation, and emerging technologies aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s defence sector.

The meeting highlighted growing efforts by the Nigerian Army and TETFund to boost local military research, improve human capital development, and position Nigeria for modern security operations.