The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, has announced plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen the operational capability of the Nigerian Army across the nation.

Lt Gen. Shaibu made the announcement on Wednesday during his operational visit to the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, where he addressed officers, from second lieutenants to captains and lutenant Colonels, Colonels and Brig. Generals.

The recruitment drive forms part of the Army’s strategy to address evolving security challenges and enhance the readiness of troops deployed across the country.

“The area of responsibility is vast and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground. In 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,” he said.

Lt Gen. Shaibu explained that the new training facilities, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are strategically located to produce soldiers who are highly trained in modern warfare, tactical operations, and weapon handling. The aim is to ensure that recruits are operationally ready to face security threats immediately upon completion of their training.

The COAS highlighted that the initiative is not just about increasing numbers but also about quality and operational effectiveness. He emphasized that the new soldiers would be trained in basic tactics, combat skills, and leadership principles to maintain the Army’s professional standards.

“This is a desperate time for our nation. The 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,” he said.

The COAS also reiterated the Army’s commitment to the “Soldier First” concept, promising expanded welfare and support programs for both newly recruited and existing personnel.

He urged officers to provide mentorship and guidance to the new recruits, ensuring continuity of discipline, core values, and operational excellence.

The recruitment drive is expected to significantly enhance the manpower of the Nigerian Army, enabling more effective coverage of critical areas of operation, rapid response to threats, and improved protection of civilians and national infrastructure.

The COAS’s visit to 1 Division also included engagements with officers on operational logistics, welfare schemes, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the Army’s capacity to respond to security challenges across the North West and other theatres of operations. (Zagazola, excluding headline)