Army unleashes 8,000 fresh troops in renewed offensive against terrorists, bandits

The Nigerian Army has significantly strengthened its operational capacity with the graduation of more than 8,000 newly trained soldiers, a move aimed at reinforcing ongoing military operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

The new recruits passed out on Saturday at the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo, Osun State, during a ceremony attended by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who described the event as another milestone in the Army’s drive to build a highly professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force.

Addressing the graduating soldiers, the COAS said the recruitment forms part of the Federal Government’s directive under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enlist 28,000 additional personnel into the Nigerian Army in order to strengthen its force structure and improve operational effectiveness.

According to him, the initiative is designed to address existing manpower gaps while enhancing the Army’s ability to respond decisively to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

Lieutenant General Shaibu said the recruits had undergone rigorous military training tailored to build their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership skills and fighting spirit required for modern warfare.

He noted that the soldiers were joining the Army at a critical period when troops remain actively deployed across several theatres of operation to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime threatening national security.

The Army Chief urged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage, loyalty and selfless service throughout their military careers.

He reminded them that the nation had invested substantial resources in their recruitment and training and expressed confidence that they would justify the confidence reposed in them through dedicated service.

“The Nigerian Army expects you to remain steadfast, resilient and committed to your constitutional responsibilities. Carry out your duties with professionalism, military ethics and the highest respect for human rights,” Shaibu charged.

He expressed optimism that the newly graduated soldiers would significantly reinforce ongoing military operations and contribute to improving security and restoring lasting peace across the country.

Earlier, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the recruits on the successful completion of their training.

He commended their resilience, discipline and determination during the training programme and reaffirmed the commitment of the Osun State Government to supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to safeguard the nation’s peace, security and development.

Adewusi urged the new soldiers to remain patriotic and dedicated to the defence of Nigeria as they begin active military service.