The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged newly graduated Nigerian Army recruits to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the country, stressing that the nation’s security challenges demand courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty.
The Army Chief gave the charge on Thursday during the graduation ceremony of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake under the Restore Hope Programme at the Nigerian Army Depot Shooting Range in Zaria.
Addressing the recruits, senior military officers, government officials and invited guests, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the newly trained soldiers were entering service at a critical period in the nation’s history, when security agencies are confronting a range of complex and evolving threats.
He noted that the security environment has changed significantly in recent years, requiring personnel who are not only physically prepared for combat operations but also capable of adapting to modern warfare tactics and intelligence-driven missions.
According to the Army Chief, the fight against insurgency, banditry and kidnapping requires discipline, resilience and strict adherence to established rules of engagement.
He urged the recruits to remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism throughout their careers.
“The task ahead is enormous, but your training has prepared you to meet the challenges with courage and determination,” he said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized that military success depends not only on operational effectiveness but also on maintaining public trust and protecting the rights of civilians during operations.
He reminded the recruits that their conduct in the field would reflect directly on the image and reputation of the Nigerian Army.
The Army Chief further encouraged the graduates to work closely with other security agencies and local communities, noting that collaboration and intelligence gathering remain essential components of efforts to address insecurity across the country.
He said the Nigerian Army remains committed to enhancing its operational capabilities through continuous training, improved welfare initiatives and the adoption of modern technologies to tackle emerging security threats.
The Restore Hope Programme, under which the recruits were trained, is designed to equip soldiers with the knowledge, skills and discipline required to effectively respond to contemporary security challenges.
The programme focuses on physical fitness, weapons handling, tactical operations, leadership development and the ethical standards expected of military personnel.
Military authorities said the successful completion of the programme marks an important milestone in the recruits’ transition into active service.
The graduation ceremony featured drills, tactical demonstrations and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits who distinguished themselves during the training period.
Senior officers at the event commended the graduates for their resilience and dedication throughout the rigorous training process.
Nigeria continues to face security challenges in several regions, including insurgency in the North-East, bandit attacks in parts of the North-West and North-Central, as well as rising cases of kidnapping for ransom in different parts of the country.
In response, the military and other security agencies have intensified operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, securing vulnerable communities and restoring peace in affected areas.
The induction of the new recruits is expected to strengthen ongoing military operations and boost the capacity of security forces to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
As they prepare to begin active duty, the newly graduated soldiers have been urged to remain committed to the values of discipline, selfless service and patriotism.
Their deployment, military authorities say, forms part of broader efforts to reinforce national security and advance the government’s objective of ensuring lasting peace and stability across the country. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
