A total of 5,876 recruits officially joined the ranks of the Nigerian Army after completing training at the Depot Nigerian Army Training School during the 90 Regular Recruits Intake graduation ceremony in Zaria.
The new soldiers were formally inducted during the Passing Out Parade held on Saturday at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State, marking the successful completion of months of intensive military training.
Addressing the recruits, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, charged them to be courageous and decisive in confronting terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the nation’s peace and security.
He said the recruits had undergone rigorous military training, including Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency operations, and were now ready to contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at safeguarding Nigeria.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to denying criminal elements any safe haven across the country,” the Army Chief said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu, however, reminded the newly inducted soldiers that all military operations must be conducted professionally and in line with established rules.
“All operations must be carried out in strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict,” he stated.
The Army Chief also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in strengthening the operational capacity of the military. He noted that Nigerians expect the new soldiers to demonstrate discipline, excellence, and loyalty to the Constitution.
He further warned the recruits against the misuse of social media, stressing that careless online activities and the unauthorized release of sensitive information could jeopardize military operations and national security.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed confidence that the soldiers would play a key role in ongoing offensives against insecurity. Out of the 6,001 recruits who began the training programme, 5,876 successfully completed the course and participated in the Passing Out Parade.
