The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Kenneth Minimah, on Saturday said the Nigerian Army would put in check the Boko Haram terrorists and restore peace to the North East region of the country.

The Army chief made the commitment at the passing out parade of Direct Short Service Commission Course 22/2015, held at the Nigeria Army School of Infantry, Jaji, Kaduna State.

He said that the insurgents ``have been seriously degraded'', and pledged that the army would not relent until it ensures peace and stability in the region.

Minimah challenged the new officers to be prepared to join the war`` to crush those bigoted miscreants.''

``You are aware of our current national security challenges, particularly in the North Eastern part of the country.

``As we continue to make progress towards ending the Boko Haram insurgency, you will be joining the rank of officers and men who have demonstrated tremendous gallantry and valour in defence of our fatherland against the terrorists.

``Therefore, you must be ready to contribute your quota towards taming these bandits.

``You will be leading men who have firmly resolved that "Never Again" will a band of bigoted miscreants be allowed to unleash havoc on our country and its citizens,`` he said.

Minimah commended the resilience and sacrifice of soldiers in the field, saying they have demonstrated uncommon courage in the fight against the insurgents.

He urged the officers to be patriotic and committed to the nation, adding that the Army would demand nothing short of the very best from them.

``We operate zero tolerance for misconduct and cowardice, you must eschew any behaviour that could tarnish your honour and diginity as commissioned officers,” he said.

He also commended the school for the quality training it offered the cadets, and advised the management and instructors to remain focused on their job.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that 152 cadets passed out at the ceremony. (NAN)

•Photo shows Minimah.

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