Army injects fresh strength, deploys 3,439 recruits

More than 3,400 newly trained soldiers have been inducted into the Nigerian Army after completing an intensive six-month programme at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The recruits, drawn from the 89 Regular Recruit Intake, formally passed out during a colourful parade held on Friday, marking the end of their basic military training.

Following their graduation, the soldiers are expected to be posted to different operational formations across the country to bolster security operations.

Confirming the development in a statement on Saturday, the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, charged the recruits to remain committed to the core values of loyalty, discipline and professionalism.

According to him, the fresh intake will significantly enhance the Army’s operational strength as it responds to evolving internal and cross-border security challenges.

“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,” the COAS said, according to the statement.