The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems, in tackling the country’s security challenges.

Oluyede made the call on Friday in Kaduna while inaugurating the Nigerian Defence Academy Command Centre and three other projects at the academy.

The other projects inaugurated were the expanded and remodelled RSM Oliver Nzalgana Parade Ground, a newly constructed 500-capacity Ashanti Battalion Cadets’ Mess and the renovated Ribadu Auditorium.

The CDS said the changing nature of contemporary security threats required the Armed Forces to continuously adapt and deploy technology to improve operational effectiveness.

He said advanced technological systems would help the military process information more quickly, strengthen situational awareness and improve responses to emerging threats.

Oluyede stressed that the development of professional and effective armed forces required sustained attention to training, organisational structure, personnel welfare, discipline and technological innovation.

He described the new Command Centre as an important component of the academy’s security architecture, noting that technology had become increasingly central to modern defence operations.

The CDS said the military could not afford to ignore advances in artificial intelligence and sophisticated surveillance systems in efforts to protect personnel, critical infrastructure and the country.

He commended the Commandant of the NDA, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, officers and staff for their contributions to infrastructure and human-capacity development.

Olatoye said the Command Centre was equipped with artificial intelligence-enabled closed-circuit television surveillance technology designed to strengthen security within the academy.

He said the facility would improve surveillance and physical security for cadets, staff and critical infrastructure.

The commandant added that the renovated Ribadu Auditorium followed a fire outbreak on July 9, while the expanded parade ground would provide improved facilities for ceremonial activities and military drills.

He said the new cadets’ mess would also improve welfare and dining arrangements while providing space for professional interaction and the development of discipline among cadets.