The Nigerian Army has welcomed 6000 new recruits into its ranks as part of efforts to address the country’s ongoing security issues.
This significant addition was highlighted by Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), during the Passing Out Parade of the 86th Regular Recruits Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria.
General Lagbaja emphasized the importance of these new soldiers in combating various security threats.
He stated, “The young recruits of Depot Nigerian Army, who are here to pass out today, will form part of Nigerian Army’s solution to the challenge of insurgency in the North East, banditry and cattle rustling in the North West, farmers-herders clashes in the North Central, secessionists agitations and cultism in the South East, militancy and vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure in the South South and South West.”
The recruits, after completing six months of rigorous training, will undergo further advanced military training. This will include mastering the Nigerian Army’s array of weapons and special soldiering skills. The COAS assured that the Army is enhancing welfare packages to support the soldiers’ needs, including housing, medical care, recreation, and education.
General Lagbaja also reminded the new soldiers of their duty to defend the nation, even at the cost of their lives.
He said, “By becoming a soldier, you have accepted the highest call to duty and to abide by the requirements of exceptional discipline, loyalty, integrity, and dedication to duty.”
Notable figures including the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Hadiza Balarabe, and His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Zauzzau, attended the event. During the ceremony, four recruits received awards for their outstanding performance. Recruit Odo Maurice was honored with the Chief of Army Staff Award, Recruit Obasekemi Ibrahim received the Chief of Training (Army) Award, Recruit Onyema Ozioma received Chief of Administration (Army) Award, and Recruit Abubakar Mubarak received the Commandant Depot NA Award.
The COAS also commissioned 40 remodeled flats at Chindit Barracks, enhancing accommodation for the soldiers. General Lagbaja expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, along with the National Assembly, Minister of Defence, and Chief of Defence Staff.
This event marks a significant step in bolstering the Nigerian Army’s capability to address the nation’s diverse security challenges.