The Nigerian Army has strengthened its manpower with the graduation of over 3,000 recruits as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday passed out the latest batch of soldiers at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State.
The Passing Out Parade marks another milestone in the Army’s ongoing recruitment drive aimed at enhancing operational capacity and addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges through increased force generation.
Addressing the new soldiers, Lieutenant General Shaibu charged them to uphold the highest standards of discipline, loyalty and professionalism as they begin active military service. He urged the recruits to remain committed to the Constitution and constituted authority, stressing that the nation expects them to justify the investment made in their training through courage, dedication and selfless service.
The Army Chief noted that the rigorous training programme was specifically designed to prepare the recruits for the realities of modern warfare and Nigeria’s complex security environment, urging them to remain vigilant, mission-focused and combat-ready.
He described the establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, as a strategic investment in the Army’s training infrastructure and manpower development, adding that it aligns with the service’s transformation agenda to build a more capable and responsive force.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also commended the Commandant, instructors and support staff of the depot for their professionalism and commitment to producing well-trained soldiers capable of supporting military operations across the country.
Speaking at the event, Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, praised the Nigerian Army for establishing the training depot in the state, describing it as a strategic national asset that has enhanced security, stimulated economic activities and created opportunities for residents of Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to promote peace, security and development.
The ceremony attracted senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the recruits and other dignitaries. It featured an impressive parade, precision drills and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits, underscoring the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building a disciplined, professional and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats.
