N/Army@163: COAS Targets 28,000 Manpower Recruitment

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and supporting democratic stability across Africa as the Army marks its 163rd anniversary.

Shaibu disclosed that the army had expanded its recruitment capacity by establishing an additional training depot at Amasiri Edda, bringing the number of training institutions to three.

According to him, the initiative is expected to enable the recruitment and training of an additional 28,000 soldiers to strengthen ongoing operations against insecurity nationwide.

He added that the army had also established additional brigades and units, inducted modern combat platforms and intensified strategic partnerships to improve operational effectiveness.

The army chief who was represented by the chief of policy and plans, Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi, gave the assurance yesterday day in Abuja at a press briefing to herald the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).

He said the Nigerian Army remained resilient and professional in tackling evolving security threats, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist activities and other forms of criminality across the country.

According to him, the army has continued to modernise its capabilities while working closely with other security agencies to safeguard the nation.

“We shall continue to discharge our constitutional duties in tandem with the rules of engagement, with respect for all aspects of human rights as enshrined in the Constitution and other international principles and guidelines,” he said.

The COAS said since assuming office seven months ago, the army had recorded notable progress in operations, infrastructure development, manpower expansion, professionalism and civil-military relations.

He said his command philosophy was focused on transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

The COAS said personnel welfare remained a key priority under the “Soldier-First” culture, describing it as critical to operational success.

Reflecting on the army’s history, Shaibu said the institution, which traces its origin to the “Glover Hausas” established in 1863, had evolved into a professional force committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting regional peace and democratic processes.

“As we celebrate, we must not forget the role the Nigerian Army has played and continues to play in ensuring peace and democratic processes in the Sub-Saharan region,” he said.

Shaibu announced that this year’s NADCEL themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” would hold from July 1 to July 6 in Port Harcourt.

He said activities lined up for the celebration include special prayers, public lectures, medical outreaches, community projects, literary awards, media engagement, research and development exhibitions, and the grand finale parade.

The COAS added that the celebration would also feature the African Land Forces Forum (AFRILAFF) 2026, expected to attract chiefs of African armies, defence industry representatives, policymakers and security experts to discuss regional security cooperation and emerging defence technologies.

He called on the media to continue supporting national security efforts through objective reporting while urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies.

“The Nigerian Army belongs to Nigerians. Let us all demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the ideals of peace and unity for national development,” he said.

In a related development, the Army Chief in a goodwill message at the Juma’at prayer said the Nigerian Army troops remain actively engaged in operations aimed at combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening the peace and stability of our nation.

He noted that despite the complexity of these security challenges, the Nigerian Army has continued to record notable achievements across the various theatres of operation.

“Through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralised, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to communities. These successes have been achieved through the collective efforts of our personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders,” he said.

He commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline and commitment to duty.

He reaffirmed his commitment to troops’ welfare by improving accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other welfare initiatives.

“We remain committed to creating an environment where every officer and soldier can serve with dignity, confidence and pride while their families receive the support they deserve,” he added.