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

By Kingsley Omonobi

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.