The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, has unveiled an ambitious plan to recruit and train 24,000 new soldiers as part of a major effort to strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army and enhance national security.
Lt Gen. Shuaibu made the announcement on Wednesday during an operational visit to the 1 Division Nigerian Army in Kaduna, where he addressed officers ranging from second lieutenants to captains and lieutenant colonels. His visit focused on operational reviews, logistics, welfare, and the Armyโs evolving strategy to tackle rising security challenges across the country.
According to the COAS, the recruitment initiative forms a central pillar of the Armyโs renewed commitment to confront persistent and emerging security threats. He noted that Nigeriaโs security landscape has expanded significantly, requiring more personnel and improved training to maintain operational effectiveness.
โThe area of responsibility is vast and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground,โ Lt Gen. Shuaibu said. โIn six months, we aim to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training facilities. If we operate two streams, we can produce up to 24,000 soldiers ready for deployment.โ
He explained that the newly approved training centresโestablished with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubuโare strategically located to ensure faster, more efficient recruitment and training. These centres will specialise in modern warfare training, tactical combat readiness, weapon handling, and other critical military skills needed for frontline operations.
The Army Chief stressed that the recruitment drive is not just about increasing numbers but also about improving the overall quality, effectiveness, and professionalism of the force. He revealed that the new recruits will undergo intensive training in combat tactics, discipline, leadership, and operational excellence.
โThis is a desperate time for our nation,โ he said. โThe soldiers we train must be ready to tackle the multifaceted security challenges we face. We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led.โ
Lt Gen. Shuaibu also reiterated his commitment to the โSoldier Firstโ philosophyโan initiative aimed at improving welfare, healthcare, career development, and overall wellbeing for both new and existing personnel. He encouraged senior officers to mentor incoming recruits, preserve core military values, and sustain a culture of discipline and professionalism.
The recruitment of 24,000 soldiers is expected to significantly boost the Armyโs manpower, enabling more effective deployment across critical zones, quicker response to threats, and improved safeguarding of communities, infrastructure, and national interests.
The COASโs visit to 1 Division also featured a series of high-level engagements focused on strengthening logistics support, enhancing troop welfare, and refining strategies to counter persistent insecurity in the North West and other operational theatres nationwide.
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