The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday hosted Chiefs of Army and senior military leaders from Africa and other parts of the world at a cocktail reception in Port Harcourt as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).

The event, attended by top military commanders from several partner nations, served as a platform to deepen defence cooperation, strengthen military diplomacy and enhance professional engagement among participating armies.

Addressing the gathering, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu described the Nigerian Army Day Celebration as more than a ceremonial event, noting that it provides a strategic opportunity for military leaders to exchange operational experiences, strengthen partnerships and foster greater collaboration in addressing emerging security challenges.

The army chief said the evolving nature of global and transnational security threats requires sustained cooperation, knowledge sharing and improved interoperability among armed forces to enhance collective security and operational effectiveness.

He stressed that partnerships founded on mutual trust, professionalism and shared values remain essential in safeguarding peace, promoting regional stability and responding effectively to contemporary security threats.

The reception brought together senior military leaders from across Africa and other parts of the world, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening international defence cooperation and advancing regional and global security.

The cocktail reception is one of the highlights of the week-long activities lined up for NADCEL 2026 in Rivers State, which has attracted military delegations from several countries in celebration of the Nigerian Army’s 163 years of service and commitment to national security. (Zagazola)