NIGERIA:  Army Inducts 3,439 New Recruits As COAS Charges Them on Loyalty, Discipline

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Nigerian Army has inducted 3,439 newly trained soldiers into its ranks, as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, charged them to uphold loyalty, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

The recruits, drawn from the 89 Regular Intake, completed six months of intensive military training at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and were formally presented during a Passing Out Parade held on Saturday.

Addressing the recruits as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the parade as a reflection of dedication, perseverance and discipline.

He said: “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.”

The Army Chief noted that the addition of the new soldiers would significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army at a time of evolving domestic and transnational security threats.

Shaibu stated: “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.”

He emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains a professional, combat-ready force capable of responding decisively to threats across the country.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also reminded the recruits of the Oath of Allegiance they took, urging them to conduct themselves with integrity and respect for human rights.

“By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Avoid any act that may tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army or the nation. Serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority,” he warned.

The COAS commended the Depot Nigerian Army for its long-standing role in producing professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, describing the institution as the backbone of the Army’s training system.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and other security agencies for their continued support to the Nigerian Army.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also praised the Commandant, instructors and staff of the Depot for their commitment to training the new recruits.

Concluding his address, the Army Chief congratulated the recruits and their families, wishing them safe deployment and successful careers across various Army formations.