Be Loyal, Disciplined, Army Chief Charges 3,439 Recruits

Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu has charged the 3,439 recruits of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, discipline and professionalism as they formally join the service.

He gave the charge at the 89th Regular Intake passing out parade at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria yesterday after successfully completing six months of intensive training.

The event marked their official induction into the army. The COAS described the parade as a “testament to your dedication and perseverance.”

According to the army chief, the parade showcased the skills, discipline and esprit de corps instilled in the recruits over the course of their training.

General Shaibu who was the special guest of honour and reviewing officer, while addressing the recruits said their successful training reflected hard work, dedication and discipline.

Highlighting the army’s role as a professional, combat-ready force, he stressed the significance of the additional manpower in strengthening national security.

He noted that the Nigerian Army continued to confront emerging domestic and transnational threats and that the new recruits are vital to sustaining operational readiness across the country.

“Your successful training reflects hard work, dedication, and discipline. You have been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering and are now entrusted with the sacred duty of safeguarding the territorial integrity of our nation. I have no doubt that you will rise to the challenges ahead and serve with honour, courage, and professionalism.

“The Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational security threats. 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. You are now part of a professional, combat-ready force capable of decisively responding to any threat to our nation,” he said.

The COAS commended Depot Nigerian Army for its historic role in producing professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, adding that the premier institution remains the backbone of the Nigerian Army’s training capabilities.

“I assure you that it will continue to receive unwavering support in terms of logistics, training infrastructure, and personnel welfare to maintain its high standards.”

Shaibu urged the recruits to maintain discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights in all operations, stressing that these values are the cornerstone of professional soldiering.

He reminded them of the Oath of Allegiance they took, stating, “By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Avoid any act that may tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army or the nation. Serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority.”

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and various security agencies for their continuous support to the Nigerian Army.

He also commended the commandant, instructors, and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their dedication in producing well-trained, professional soldiers.