COAS Charges New Soldiers: Be Decisive Against Threats, Professional In Conduct

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the newly trained soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake to be decisive in confronting terrorists and criminal elements while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and respect for human rights.

The directive was given on Saturday,  June 20, 2026, during the Passing Out Parade (POP) at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna state.

A statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, said the Army Chief underscored the critical role the new soldiers will play in ongoing operations to safeguard national security. He stated that following rigorous military training, including Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency operations, the troops were fully prepared to take the fight to all threats confronting the nation.

General Shaibu emphasised that while the Nigerian Army remained resolute in denying criminal elements any safe haven, all operations must be conducted in strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict.

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu highlighted the continued support of the President and Commander-in-Chief Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, in strengthening the capacity of the Armed Forces. He noted that Nigerians expected the new soldiers to demonstrate discipline, operational excellence and unwavering loyalty to the Constitution.

He also cautioned against the misuse of social media, warning that unprofessional conduct online and unauthorized disclosure of information could compromise operational security and undermine national efforts to defeat insecurity.

Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, the COAS assured that the newly inducted soldiers will play a vital role in sustaining ongoing offensives aimed at restoring peace, stability and security across the country.