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The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS General Olufemi Oluyede, on Monday suggested that the armed forces were in the process of revising a new Joint Doctrine aimed at addressing multi-domain operations.

The CDS provided a clue while addressing the audience as the Guest Speaker at the NISECEXPO-DICON International Defence and Security Exhibition, hosted by the Nigeria Security Exhibition and Conference (NISEC) in partnership with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), held in Abuja.

Gen Oluyede also revealed the creation of a Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, tasked with advancing joint doctrine, joint training, and joint operational concepts, along with planning for integrated command centers in upcoming conflicts. This initiative will aid in maintaining consistent situational awareness, quicker decision-making, and efficient multi-domain collaboration.

He highlighted that the new doctrine, once fully implemented, would guarantee that all services “use the same operational/tactical language” and work toward a single integrated national strategic goal.

Gen Oluyede, represented by Major General Aniedi Edet, Director-General of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre at the Defence Headquarters, stated that the type of threats facing the country had undergone a major transformation, pointing out that enemies were no longer traditional large-scale armies but flexible, evolving networks functioning across various domains.

He mentioned that conflict has gone beyond the conventional land, sea, and air areas, actively expanding into the information, electromagnetic, and cyber fields, all requiring specific skills, innovative ideas, and increased cooperation, emphasizing that maintaining an advantage over opponents necessitates a shift from individual service responses to a cohesive, integrated, and effective joint strategy.

He stated, “To maintain our position in front of changing dangers, the Nigerian Armed Forces is enhancing its joint systems and operational setups.”

Some major initiatives are as follows: the formation of a Permanent Joint Theatre Command, transitioning from temporary joint task forces to more stable and well-coordinated frameworks; examination of the 2017 Joint Structure, which is currently being completed to adapt to new circumstances and match international standards; and the establishment of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, responsible for advancing joint doctrine, joint training, and joint operational concepts, while working towards integrated command centers for upcoming conflicts, ensuring consistent situational awareness, quicker decision-making, and cross-domain cooperation.

These changes would direct subsequent purchases, mandate design, and ensure preparedness for operations.

Gen Oluyede stated that the expo’s theme, “Future Wars: Operational Endurance and Force Build-up Capabilities,” aligns closely with the military’s main focus, which is to get ready for upcoming conflicts.

He stated, “As the world swiftly advances toward autonomous systems, robotics, artificial intelligence, and unmanned platforms, the future may involve minimal human involvement on the frontlines, with conflicts largely managed by drones, robots, and algorithm-based systems. The Nigerian military is closely observing these developments and seeking methods to incorporate them into our defense strategy.”

Likewise, Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency and Defence Space Administration are placing greater emphasis on enhancing the country’s cyber security and space technologies.

The National Intelligence Fusion Centre, part of the Office of the National Security Adviser, has emerged as one of our most efficient methods for immediate intelligence exchange between security agencies and collaborators. It bolsters anti-terrorism efforts, combats cybercrime, and improves reactions to global threats.

Stressing that security is no longer solely the duty of the military or security organizations, the CDS pointed out that Nigeria’s security issues require collaboration from all parts of society, with each group having a significant part to contribute.

He mentioned that with strategic communication playing a key role in national security, the military will keep collaborating with the media, civil society, and local leaders to spread truthful stories, safeguard civilians, and foster trust.

In his comments, Frank Ohwofa, the Chief Executive Officer of NISEC, stated that the 2025 event sought to create new approaches to tackle defense issues in Nigeria and Africa.

Ohwofa highlighted the importance of Nigeria manufacturing its defense requirements domestically, pointing out that failing to do so could leave the nation exposed, given the risks associated with global supply chain disruptions.

He stated, “I am especially impressed by the local companies demonstrating their ability to produce spare parts, vehicles, and other military needs. This is crucial for independence and preparedness.”

Ohwofa mentioned that the event, taking place from December 8 to 10, will highlight new innovations and technologies that can greatly improve Nigeria’s capacity to deal with unconventional threats.

He stated, “The technologies showcased are significantly more sophisticated compared to earlier versions. They will assist security agencies in determining what needs to be modified and what skills need to be developed.”

Before this event concludes, which will run until December 10, we anticipate the formation of multiple partnerships and cooperation agreements, especially in support of local content creation, in line with government objectives.