Nigerian Army Boosts Operational Strength with Over 8,000 New Soldiers

The Nigerian Army has strengthened its operational capacity with the graduation of more than 8,000 newly trained soldiers from the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo, Osun State, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster security operations across the country.

Speaking at the Passing Out Parade held on Saturday, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the newly enlisted personnel would reinforce ongoing military operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging security threats.

The COAS described the graduation as a major milestone in the Army’s commitment to building a highly professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force capable of supporting Nigeria’s national security objectives.

Shaibu explained that the recruitment exercise is part of the Federal Government’s directive under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Nigerian Army to recruit 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen its force structure.
According to him, the initiative is designed to address manpower shortages, improve operational effectiveness and enhance the Army’s ability to respond decisively to evolving security challenges across the country.

He noted that the recruits underwent rigorous military training aimed at developing their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership skills and fighting spirit required for modern military operations.

The Army chief told the graduates that they were joining the service at a critical period when troops remain actively deployed in several theatres of operation to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect lives and property, and preserve the country’s territorial integrity.
He charged the soldiers to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage, loyalty and selfless service throughout their military careers.

Shaibu also reminded them that substantial national resources had been invested in their recruitment and training, urging them to remain steadfast, resilient and committed to duty while observing military ethics, professionalism and respect for human rights.

Expressing confidence in their readiness, he said the new soldiers would significantly reinforce ongoing operations and contribute to improving security and restoring lasting peace across the country.

Earlier, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the graduating soldiers on the successful completion of their training. He commended their resilience, discipline and determination, while reaffirming the state’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in promoting peace, security and national development.

He also urged the new soldiers to remain dedicated to the service of the nation.