Nigerian Army Boosts Strength with New Depot and Recruits
The Nigerian Army is set to enhance its operational capabilities with the approval of a new Army Depot in Abakaliki, complementing the existing facility in Osogbo. This strategic expansion, sanctioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a crucial step in the nation’s plan to significantly increase the number of well-trained troops available for deployment across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, highlighted the growing necessity for increased recruitment in light of the current complex security challenges facing Nigeria. This initiative aims to bolster the Army’s capacity to effectively address both domestic and transnational threats.
Induction of 3,439 New Soldiers
The commitment to strengthening national security was underscored by the formal induction of 3,439 newly trained recruits into the Nigerian Army. These individuals, comprising the 89 Regular Intake, successfully completed six months of rigorous and intensive training at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria. Their official entry into service was marked by a Passing Out Parade, a significant ceremony that signifies their transformation into professional soldiers.
The parade served as a powerful demonstration of the skills, discipline, and esprit de corps that have been meticulously instilled in the recruits throughout their demanding training regimen.
Upholding Core Values: Loyalty, Discipline, and Professionalism
Addressing the graduating recruits as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized the paramount importance of upholding the highest standards of loyalty, discipline, and professionalism. He congratulated them on their achievement, stating that their successful completion of training is a direct reflection of their hard work, dedication, and unwavering discipline.
General Shaibu reminded the new soldiers of their solemn responsibility to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity. He expressed confidence in their ability to rise to the challenges ahead and to serve with honour, courage, and professionalism.
Strengthening National Security and Operational Readiness
The COAS articulated that the Nigerian Army is continuously engaged in confronting evolving domestic and transnational security threats. The induction of these new recruits is therefore vital for sustaining and enhancing the Army’s operational readiness across all regions of the country.
“Your induction today is not only a boost to our manpower but a reinforcement of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian,” Lieutenant General Shaibu stated. He assured the recruits that they are now part of a professional, combat-ready force equipped to decisively respond to any threat to the nation’s security.
Depot Nigerian Army: A Legacy of Excellence
Lieutenant General Shaibu took the opportunity to commend the Depot Nigerian Army for its enduring and historic role in shaping professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924. He recognized the Zaria-based institution as the foundational pillar of the Nigerian Army’s training capabilities. To ensure its continued effectiveness, the COAS pledged unwavering support for the Depot in terms of logistics, training infrastructure, and personnel welfare, thereby maintaining its high operational standards.
Oath of Allegiance and Ethical Conduct
The recruits were reminded of the profound significance of the Oath of Allegiance they had taken. General Shaibu stressed that this oath binds them to uphold both civil and military laws, and to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the Nigerian Army and the nation. They were urged to avoid any actions that could tarnish the image of the institution or the country, and to serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority.
Acknowledging Support and Dedication
The Chief of Army Staff extended his sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his crucial approval and support. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, and various security agencies for their continuous assistance to the Nigerian Army.
Furthermore, Lieutenant General Shaibu lauded the Commandant, instructors, and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their relentless dedication in nurturing and producing well-trained, professional soldiers. He concluded by offering his congratulations to the passing-out recruits, their parents, and guardians on their remarkable accomplishment, wishing them distinguished careers, exemplary service, and fulfilling deployments.
