The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has expressed confidence that more than 8,000 newly trained soldiers will significantly strengthen ongoing military operations and contribute to restoring lasting peace and improving security across Nigeria.
Speaking at the Passing Out Parade of the recruits at Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, the Army Chief said the graduation marks a key milestone in the Service’s deliberate efforts to reinforce its manpower and sustain operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging security threats across the country.
According to a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS described the ceremony as another significant milestone in the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building “a highly professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force capable of effectively supporting the attainment of Nigeria’s national security objectives.”
Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that the recruitment exercise forms part of the Federal Government’s directive under the leadership of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the Nigerian Army to recruit an additional 28,000 personnel to strengthen its force structure.
He noted that the initiative is intended to address existing manpower requirements, enhance operational effectiveness and improve the Army’s capacity to respond decisively to the country’s evolving security challenges.
The COAS further stated that the new soldiers had undergone rigorous military training designed to build their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership qualities and fighting spirit required for contemporary military operations.
He stressed that they were joining the Nigerian Army at a critical period when troops remain actively engaged across multiple theatres of operation in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the protection of lives and property.
He therefore charged the new soldiers to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage, loyalty and selfless service throughout their military careers.
The Army Chief also reminded the recruits that substantial national resources had been invested in their recruitment, training and development, reflecting the confidence reposed in them by the nation.
He urged them to remain steadfast, resilient and committed to duty while conducting all operations in accordance with established military ethics, professionalism and the highest standards of respect for human rights.
Earlier, the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the graduating soldiers on the successful completion of their training and commended their resilience, discipline and determination.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Osun State Government to supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to preserve peace, security and national development, while urging the new soldiers to remain dedicated to the service of the nation.
Linus Aleke
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