NIGERIAN ARMY WELCOMES 3,439 NEW TROOPS AS COAS EMPHASIZES DISCIPLINE, PROFESSIONALISM

The Nigerian Army has boosted its operational strength with the formal induction of 3,439 newly trained soldiers, as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (NAM), charged them to uphold loyalty, discipline and professionalism in service to the nation.

In a statement released by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the recruits, members of the 89 Regular Intake, successfully completed six months of rigorous military training at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria and were formally presented during a colourful Passing Out Parade that marked their entry into active service.

Presiding as Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the parade as a reflection of dedication, resilience and the esprit de corps instilled during training. He noted that the new soldiers had been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering and were now entrusted with the responsibility of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

The Army Chief underscored the strategic importance of the additional manpower, stressing that the Nigerian Army continues to contend with evolving domestic and transnational security threats. According to him, the induction of the recruits significantly enhances the Army’s capacity to maintain nationwide operational readiness and respond decisively to emerging challenges.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also highlighted the historic role of Depot Nigerian Army, established in 1924, describing it as the backbone of the Army’s training architecture and a consistent producer of professional soldiers. He reaffirmed the commitment of Army leadership to sustained investment in logistics, training infrastructure and personnel welfare to preserve the institution’s high standards.

Emphasizing the ethical foundations of military service, the COAS urged the new soldiers to uphold discipline, integrity and respect for human rights in all operations, noting that these values define professionalism in the modern military. He reminded them of their Oath of Allegiance, which binds them to both civil and military laws and charged them to conduct themselves in a manner that protects the image of the Nigerian Army and the nation.

The Army Chief expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani and sister security agencies for their continued support to the Nigerian Army. He also commended the Commandant, instructors and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their commitment to producing well trained and disciplined soldiers.

The event concluded with congratulations to the passing-out recruits and their families, with assurances of a fulfilling and impactful military career as they proceed to various Army formations across the country.