Army Plans to Recruit 28,000 More Troops Amid Rising Insecurity

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Army has finalized plans to enlist and train an additional 28,000 soldiers, a move aimed at boosting its operational strength and addressing the country’s escalating security challenges.

The Army reiterated its resolve to prevent criminal and subversive actors from operating freely, emphasizing that lasting peace and security are vital for Nigeria’s economic development and prosperity.

During a press briefing on Friday that marked the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu announced that the Service would continue its operations in strict adherence to rules of engagement, international humanitarian law, and both domestic and international legal frameworks protecting human rights.

Represented by Chief of Policy and Plans (Army) Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS highlighted the “Soldier‑First” philosophy as a cornerstone of his vision, prioritizing the welfare of personnel and their families to enhance operational effectiveness.

He stated: “We are also refining our deployment strategies and leveraging modern technology as a force multiplier to swiftly counter all forms of criminality across the country.”

“Manpower is as crucial as equipment in the fight against insecurity. To that end, we have broadened our recruitment by opening a new training depot at Amasiri Edda, making it the third institution to train able‑bodied civilians for the Nigerian Army, thereby increasing our manpower.”

“With this initiative, the Nigerian Army will recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops to help curb the tide of insecurity nationwide. Accordingly, we have formed additional brigades and units to strengthen our operations, while continuously reviewing our force structure to address gaps in deployments and respond to emerging security challenges.”

“We have also enhanced our operational capability through the induction of modern platforms, combat enablers, and strategic partnerships.”

“Moreover, we have institutionalized measures to celebrate gallantry and honor our heroes, and we have begun extensive infrastructure improvements across all Nigerian Army formations and units nationwide. As we celebrate, we must remember the Army’s role in safeguarding peace and democratic processes in sub‑Saharan Africa.”

Reaffirming the Army’s dedication to human rights, the COAS said: “We will continue to discharge our constitutional duties in line with the rules of engagement, respecting all aspects of human rights as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as other international principles and guidelines.”

He noted that the Nigerian Army has remained steadfast in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities despite the country’s evolving security environment.

According to him, the Service has continued to expand and modernise its capabilities to meet emerging threats.

“Today, our troops are actively engaged in multiple operations across the country, significantly degrading the activities of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, insurgent groups, bandits, kidnappers, separatist elements, and other non‑state actors threatening national peace and stability,” he added.