The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are undertaking a comprehensive review of the 2017 joint structure to ensure it reflects current security realities and emerging strategic challenges.
He explained that the review aims to strengthen coordination among the services, enhance operational effectiveness, and align the nation’s defence architecture with global best practices.
According to General Oluyede, evolving threats, rapid technological advancements, and the demand for a more agile force make it essential to modernise the existing framework. The ultimate goal, he said, is to bolster national security and overall readiness.
He made these remarks at the opening of the 2025 NISECEXPO–DICON International Defence and Security Show, organised by Nigeria Security and Conference in collaboration with the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and held at the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja.
Speaking on the topic “Strengthening Military Operations Through Integrated Joint Command and Multi-Domain Platforms: Modern Approaches to the Nigerian Military Approach,” the CDS noted that ongoing reforms will shape future acquisitions, guide force design, and enhance operational preparedness.
He highlighted several key initiatives, including the establishment of a Permanent Joint Theatre Command to replace ad hoc joint task forces with more enduring and coordinated structures.
He added that the review of the 2017 joint structure is nearing completion and is designed to reflect new realities and align Nigeria’s military organisation with global standards.
General Oluyede also announced the creation of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, established less than three months ago to develop joint doctrine, deliver joint training, and advance joint operational concepts. Additionally, he said planning is underway for integrated command centres for future conflicts, which will enhance situational awareness, speed up decision-making, and improve coordination across multiple domains.
Represented by the Director-General of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, Major General Aniedi Effiong Edet, the CDS observed that global defence trends are rapidly shifting towards autonomous systems, robotics, artificial intelligence, and unmanned platforms.
He noted that future conflicts may involve minimal human presence on the front lines, relying heavily on drones, robotics, and algorithm-driven technologies.
“Nigeria must not be left behind,” he stressed, adding that the Armed Forces are exploring ways to integrate these innovations into the country’s defence posture.
He further highlighted the growing importance of cyber warfare, noting that the National Space Research and Development Agency and the Defence Space Administration are intensifying efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s cyber resilience and space capabilities.
General Oluyede urged local research institutions to deepen collaboration to boost innovation, doctrine development, and indigenous manufacturing capacity.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces remain committed to strengthening both local and international partnerships to enhance strategic depth and overall capability.
The Chief Executive Officer of NISECEXPO, Frank Ohwofa, said this year’s exhibition showcases advanced innovations and technologies capable of significantly improving Nigeria’s response to asymmetric threats.
According to him, the displayed technologies are more sophisticated than in previous editions and will help security agencies determine what changes and new capabilities are needed.
He added that several partnerships and cooperation agreements are expected to be formed during the event, especially those supporting local content development—an area he described as critical to national security.
Ohwofa emphasised that the ability to produce and maintain equipment locally is essential for reducing strategic vulnerability and achieving self-reliance.
He commended local companies demonstrating their capacity to manufacture spare parts, vehicles, and other military requirements, noting that such capabilities are vital for sustained readiness.
The theme of this year’s edition is “Future Wars: Operational Endurance and Force Build-up Capabilities”.
Linus Aleke
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