Zaria — The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (NAM), has charged 3,439 newly trained soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, discipline, and professionalism as they formally joined the service.
The recruits, members of the 89 Regular Intake of the Nigerian Army, completed six months of rigorous military training at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and were officially inducted during a Passing-Out Parade held on Friday.
Addressing the recruits as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the parade as a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and discipline demonstrated by the soldiers throughout their training.
“Your successful training reflects hard work, dedication, and discipline. You have been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering and are now entrusted with the sacred duty of safeguarding the territorial integrity of our nation,” the Army Chief said.
He stressed that the induction of the new soldiers comes at a critical time, as the Nigerian Army continues to confront evolving domestic and transnational security threats. According to him, the additional manpower will significantly enhance the Army’s operational readiness and capacity to respond decisively to threats across the country.
“The Nigerian Army remains a professional, combat-ready force. Your induction today is not only a boost to our manpower but a reinforcement of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian,” he added.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commended Depot Nigerian Army for its historic role in training professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, describing the institution as the backbone of the Army’s training architecture. He assured that the Depot would continue to receive sustained support in logistics, training infrastructure, and personnel welfare to maintain its high standards.
The COAS further urged the recruits to uphold discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights in all operations, noting that these values remain central to professional soldiering. He reminded them of the Oath of Allegiance they took, warning against any actions capable of tarnishing the image of the Nigerian Army or the nation.
“By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority,” he said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and other security agencies for their continued support to the Nigerian Army.
He also praised the Commandant, instructors, and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their commitment to producing disciplined and professional soldiers.
“Congratulations to the passing-out recruits, as well as your parents and guardians, on this remarkable achievement. May your careers be distinguished, your service exemplary, and your deployment to various Army formations safe and fulfilling,” the COAS concluded.
