The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has strengthened the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army with the graduation of more than 8,000 newly trained soldiers from the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce manpower and intensify operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
The soldiers passed out during a ceremony held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, marking another milestone in the Army’s drive to build a professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force capable of supporting Nigeria’s national security objectives.
Addressing the recruits, the COAS said the enlistment forms part of the Federal Government’s directive under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recruit an additional 28,000 personnel into the Nigerian Army to strengthen its force structure.
According to him, the recruitment is aimed at addressing manpower gaps, improving operational effectiveness and enhancing the Army’s ability to respond to the country’s evolving security challenges.
Lieutenant General Shaibu said the recruits had undergone rigorous military training designed to build their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership skills and fighting spirit required for modern military operations.
He noted that they were joining the Army at a critical period when troops are engaged in multiple operations across the country to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect lives and property, and combat insecurity.
The Army chief urged the new soldiers to uphold discipline, professionalism, courage, loyalty and selfless service throughout their careers, stressing the importance of adhering to military ethics and respecting human rights in the discharge of their duties.
He also reminded them that the nation had invested substantial resources in their recruitment and training, expressing confidence that they would make meaningful contributions to ongoing military operations and efforts to restore lasting peace across the country.
Earlier, Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the graduating soldiers on completing their training.
He commended their resilience, discipline and determination, while reaffirming the Osun State Government’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in promoting peace, security and national development.
The governor also encouraged the new soldiers to remain dedicated to the service of the nation as they begin their military careers.
