The Nigerian Army has strengthened its fighting force with the graduation of over 3,000 newly trained soldiers as part of ongoing efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats confronting the nation.
The recruits were officially passed out at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, after successfully completing months of intensive military training designed to prepare them for modern combat operations and internal security duties.
Speaking during the Passing Out Parade, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, charged the new soldiers to remain disciplined, courageous and professional as they begin active military service.
He urged them to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, integrity and patriotism, stressing that they have a constitutional responsibility to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect lives and property and preserve the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Army Chief noted that the graduation represents a major boost to the Army’s manpower capacity and forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and improve the military’s operational effectiveness across the country.
He reminded the recruits that the nation had invested heavily in their training and welfare, urging them to justify that confidence through selfless service, commitment and dedication in the discharge of their duties.
Shaibu explained that the passing-out parade follows similar recruit graduations recently conducted at the Nigerian Army depots in Zaria and Osogbo, reflecting the Army’s deliberate expansion of its recruitment and training programme to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
He further described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda training depot as a strategic milestone in the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda, noting that the facility would significantly enhance the production of combat-ready soldiers capable of supporting military operations nationwide.
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State commended the Nigerian Army for establishing the training depot in the state, describing it as a vital national asset that has improved security, stimulated economic activities and created employment opportunities for residents.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace, stability and sustainable development.
The colourful ceremony attracted senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the graduating soldiers and other dignitaries, with the event featuring ceremonial parades, military drills and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits.
