Army passes out over 3,000 recruits in Ebonyi to boost national security

n n

FILE IMAGE

n

By Kingsley Omonobi

n

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has passed out over 3,000 newly trained recruits at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, charging them to uphold discipline, loyalty and professionalism as they begin active military service.

n

According to the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the passing-out parade marks a significant reinforcement of the Nigerian Army’s manpower capacity as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to address prevailing security challenges and strengthen national defence.

n

She noted that the graduation follows similar recruit pass-out ceremonies recently held at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and the newly established training depot in Osogbo, Osun State, reflecting the Army’s sustained expansion of its force generation capacity.

n

Addressing the recruits, the Chief of Army Staff said their rigorous training had prepared them for the realities of modern warfare and Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

n

He urged the new soldiers to remain vigilant, disciplined and mission-focused, stressing that their loyalty to the Constitution and constituted authorities must remain unwavering.

n

Shaibu reminded them that the nation had invested significantly in their training and expected them to justify that confidence through courage, professionalism and selfless service.

n

The Army chief described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda Depot as a strategic step towards strengthening the Nigerian Army’s training infrastructure and manpower development in line with its transformation agenda.

n

He also commended the depot’s commandant, instructors and support staff for their commitment to producing competent and combat-ready soldiers capable of supporting ongoing military operations across the country.

n

In his remarks, Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, praised the Nigerian Army for establishing the depot in the state, describing it as a critical national asset that has enhanced security, stimulated economic activities and created opportunities for residents of Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.

n

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies in promoting peace, stability and development.

n

The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the recruits and other dignitaries. It featured a ceremonial parade, precision drills and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits, highlighting the Army’s commitment to building a disciplined, professional and combat-ready force.

n n