Military begins doctrine review to counter emerging security threats

The Armed Forces of Nigeria has commenced a review of its Joint Defence Doctrine to address emerging security threats and align military operations with contemporary realities.

Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, chairman of the Joint Defence Doctrine Review Committee, disclosed this during a consultative visit to the Headquarters, 6 Division Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt.

A statement by the division’s spokesperson, Lt.-Col. Umar Adam issued yesterday in Port Harcourt, said Adedoja’s visit formed part of efforts to develop the 2026 Joint Defence Doctrine through consultations with military formations and other stakeholders.

According to him, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, directed the review to ensure that military doctrine reflects prevailing security realities across various theatres of operation.

“The review seeks to ensure that the doctrine reflects current operational realities and provides guidance for future military engagements,” he said.

Adedoja explained that the joint defence doctrine, first reviewed in 2017, was intended to undergo periodic updates to address emerging security challenges.

He noted that previous attempts to review the document in 2022 and 2025 were not concluded.

According to him, the current exercise, which commenced in June, focuses on critical areas including logistics, command and control, technology, emerging threats, future warfare and inter-agency cooperation.

“It is important to undertake broad consultations to produce a doctrine informed by practical operational experience.

“We are committed to producing an inclusive document. Every contribution and recommendation from stakeholders will receive due consideration,” he said.

Adedoja urged commanders and staff officers of the 6 Division and its affiliated formations to provide constructive inputs to enrich the review process.

General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, reaffirmed the division’s support for the exercise.

Represented by the division’s Chief of Staff, Brig.-Gen. Emmanuel Adamu, Emekah said the division would provide operational insights and recommendations to strengthen the doctrine.

He expressed confidence that lessons from ongoing security operations would help shape a more responsive and effective doctrinal framework.