The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday graduated more than 3,000 newly trained soldiers from the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, in Ebonyi State, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to expanding its manpower and strengthening national security.
Addressing the recruits during the passing-out parade, the COAS charged them to uphold discipline, loyalty and professionalism as they begin active military service, describing their graduation as a major boost to the Army’s operational capacity amid ongoing efforts to tackle the country’s security challenges.
He noted that the recruits had undergone rigorous military training designed to prepare them for the demands of modern warfare and Nigeria’s evolving security environment.
Lieutenant General Shaibu urged the new soldiers to remain vigilant, mission-focused and committed to the Constitution, stressing that the confidence reposed in them through the nation’s investment in their training must be repaid with courage, professionalism and selfless service.
The Army chief said the passing-out parade at Amasiri-Edda follows recent graduations of recruits at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and the newly established training depot in Osogbo, Osun State, reflecting the Nigerian Army’s sustained drive to expand its force generation capacity.
He described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda Depot as a strategic investment in the Army’s training infrastructure and manpower development, in line with its ongoing transformation agenda. He also commended the commandant, instructors and support staff for their commitment to producing well-trained and combat-ready personnel capable of supporting military operations across the country.
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, who attended the ceremony, praised the Nigerian Army for establishing the training depot in the state. He described the facility as a strategic national asset that has enhanced security, stimulated economic activities and created opportunities for residents of Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to promote peace, stability and sustainable development.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the graduating recruits and other dignitaries. It featured a ceremonial parade, precision drills and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits, highlighting the Nigerian Army’s continued focus on building a disciplined, professional and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats.
