Army Boosts Operational Capacity With 8,000 New Soldiers

The Nigerian Army has boosted its operational capacity with the graduation of over 8,000 newly trained soldiers from Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo.

This was part of the Service’s deliberate efforts to strengthen manpower and enhance ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging security threats across the country.

A statement by the Army Spokesperson, Col. Appolonia Anele, said the Passing Out Parade, held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, represented another significant milestone in the commitment of the Nigerian Army to building a highly professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force capable of effectively supporting the attainment of Nigeria’s national security objectives.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, in his remarks stated that the recruitment formed 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 Tinubu, for the Nigerian Army to recruit 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen its force structure.

He noted that the initiative was aimed at addressing existing manpower requirements, enhancing operational effectiveness and improving the Army’s capacity to respond decisively to the country’s evolving security challenges.

Shaibu affirmed that the recruits have undergone rigorous military training designed to develop their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership qualities and fighting spirit required for contemporary military operations.

He emphasised 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, territorial integrity and 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 COAS further reminded the soldiers that substantial national resources had been invested in their recruitment, training and development, underscoring 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. He expressed confidence that the newly graduated personnel would significantly reinforce ongoing operations and contribute meaningfully to improving security and restoring lasting peace across the country.

Earlier, the Governor of Osun State, 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.