Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede has called on the military to adopt artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance technology as part of efforts to tackle the country’s growing security challenges.
The CDS made the call while addressing military personnel on the need to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities and urged the Armed Forces to keep pace with rapid technological changes and use modern tools to improve operations.
According to Oluyede, technology can give security forces better access to information and help commanders make faster and more informed decisions.
Nigeria continues to face several security threats across different parts of the country, with terrorist groups, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal networks continue to create security concerns.
These threats often involve difficult terrain, large areas and fast-changing tactics. The military therefore needs reliable intelligence and surveillance systems to track threats and support troops on the ground.
Artificial intelligence can help security agencies process large amounts of information. It can also identify patterns that human analysts may miss.
Surveillance technology can support the monitoring of roads, borders, forests and other areas where criminals operate. These tools can also help commanders assess situations before they send troops into high-risk areas.
The CDS also stressed the importance of developing the skills required to operate modern defence technology. Buying advanced equipment alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security problems.
Military personnel need proper training to use the systems effectively and interpret the information they provide. The Armed Forces may also need stronger technical partnerships to maintain and improve these systems.
The push for artificial intelligence comes as countries around the world expand their use of technology in defence and national security. Nigeria’s military faces the challenge of adapting those technologies to local security conditions. It must also ensure that surveillance systems support lawful operations and protect citizens’ rights.
For Nigeria, the wider use of AI and advanced surveillance could change how security agencies gather intelligence and respond to threats. However, technology will work best alongside strong intelligence networks, trained personnel, effective coordination and sustained investment in national security.
