By MUSTAPHA YAURI

No fewer than 3,439 have successfully completed a rigorous military training programme as the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, as the institution held its traditional Beating of the Retreat and Award Ceremony.

The ceremony was in honour of the 89 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI), marking the completion of a rigorous five-month military training programme.

Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu Mohammed, Commandant, Depot NA, said on Thursday in Zaria that the ceremony was organised to celebrate the resilience, courage and discipline of the recruits who had endured intensive physical, tactical and field training.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that event featured military pageantry, music and precision drills, symbolising the formal end of the training cycle for the recruits who are scheduled to pass out on Dec 13.

According to the commandant, a total of 3,500 young Nigerians reported for training on July 1, out of which 3,439 successfully completed the programme.

“The Beating of the Retreat signifies the end of activities of the rigorous training cycle, while the award ceremony offers us the opportunity to reward hard work and excellence,” he said.

Mohammed expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for his continuous support, noting that the training period stretched the institution’s human and material resources “beyond limits.”

He also appreciated the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Warrant Officers Academy (WOA), and other key stakeholders for their collaboration in delivering joint field exercises that enriched the recruits’ training experience.

The commandant specially commended the Depot’s instructors and staff for their dedication, describing the successful completion of the programme as “a daunting task made achievable through teamwork and commitment.”

In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, urged the recruits to remain focused and committed as they prepare to join the Nigerian Army.

Wase, who was also the Special Guest of Honour at the event, reminded the recruits that military training was a continuous process that extends throughout their careers.

He encouraged them to embrace discipline, lifelong learning and professional development, noting that excellence in service depends on perseverance and readiness to seize opportunities.

Wase, therefore, congratulated the winning companies and individuals who excelled in various competitions during the training cycle, and encouraged those who did not win laurels not to be discouraged but to continue striving for excellence.

He also commended the commandant, staff and instructors of the Depot for maintaining high training standards and providing quality mentorship.

The event’s highlight was the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits and training companies, signalling the final phase of preparation for their formal enlistment into the Nigerian Army. (NAN)