HEADQUARTERS TRADOC NA CONDUCTS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE FOR THE YEAR 2025

Minna Military Cantonment, Niger State — 25 September 2025

The Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA) successfully hosted its annual Research and Development Conference for the year 2025. The two-day event, held at the TRADOC NA Auditorium in Minna Military Cantonment, Niger State, was themed “Research and Development: A Paradigm for Doctrinal Guidance in Contemporary Operational Environment.” The conference aimed to deepen the capacity of participants and broaden their understanding of evolving research and development (R&D) strategies in modern military operations.
In his opening address, the Special Guest of Honour and Commander TRADOC NA, Major General Kevin Aligbe, underscored the crucial role of innovation and R&D in military effectiveness. He highlighted the necessity of integrating emerging technologies and global best practices into the Nigerian Army’s operational frameworks to effectively address the complexities of modern warfare.
“The contemporary battlefield is rapidly evolving. To remain relevant and effective, we must not only adapt but also lead in developing doctrinal solutions through sound research and innovation,” Major General Aligbe stated.
He further stressed the value of collaboration among security agencies and academia, noting that multi-agency synergy is vital for conflict management and sustainable peacekeeping. The Commander also expressed his profound appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his steadfast support and the provision of resources that enabled the successful organization of the conference.

Delivering his welcome address, the Chief of Research and Development, Test and Evaluation (CRT&E), Major General Aminu Chinade, charged participants to remain focused and actively engaged throughout the conference. He emphasized that militaries across the world have been at the forefront of driving national development through sustained investments in research, innovation, and indigenous technology.
“In developed nations, military research and development have not only shaped defense capabilities but have also catalyzed industrial growth and technological advancement. Nigeria must not be left behind,” Major General Chinade noted.

The conference featured thought-provoking presentations and technical discussions led by experienced resource persons from diverse backgrounds. Topics ranged from indigenous technology development and tactical innovations to artificial intelligence applications in security operations.
Day two of the conference was dedicated to paper presentations that further stimulated intellectual engagement among participants. Attendees included representatives from sister security agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector, all of whom contributed to the rich discourse on the way forward for Nigeria’s defense R&D ecosystem.

As a mark of appreciation, plaques were presented to guest lecturers and discussants for their insightful contributions. The event concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing unity and shared commitment to innovation-driven military professionalism.
In his closing remarks, the Commander TRADOC NA reaffirmed the command’s resolve to continue leading initiatives that promote industrialization, technological advancement, and doctrinal development within the Nigerian Army.

“This conference is not an end but a beginning—one that must inspire continuous innovation and a forward-looking mindset within our Armed Forces,” he concluded.
FELICIA DANIEL
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army