The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has shared plans to hire and train 24,000 soldiers to help the Nigerian Army better deal with growing security problems across the country.
This announcement was made on Wednesday while he was visiting the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna. There, he addressed military officers from the rank of second lieutenant up to brigadier general.It seems the recruitment effort is part of a larger plan to increase the number of troops and improve the Army’s ability to handle operations in various areas.
Speaking at the event, the COAS said: “The area we are responsible for is very large, and the security issues we face keep changing. To fight these threats effectively, we need more soldiers on the ground. In six months, we plan to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training centers. If we run two training programs, we can prepare up to 24,000 soldiers for active duty.”
He also mentioned that the new training centers, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are set up in key locations to teach soldiers modern warfare techniques, tactical skills, and how to use advanced weapons. The goal is to have new recruits fully prepared for battle right after their training is complete.
The COAS emphasized that this effort not only focuses on increasing numbers but also on improving the quality of the soldiers. He said the new recruits will receive training in fundamental tactics, combat skills, and leadership, all in line with the Army’s high standards.
“This is a tough time for our country. The soldiers we are training must be ready to face all the security challenges we are dealing with. We are determined to make sure they are well-equipped, well-trained, and properly led,” he added.
Reinforcing the Army’s “Soldier First” approach, the COAS also promised better support and welfare programs for both new and existing soldiers. He encouraged officers to guide and mentor incoming recruits to keep up high standards of discipline, uphold important values, and maintain strong operational performance.During the visit, General Shaibu also talked with officers about logistics, welfare programs, and steps being taken to improve the Army’s ability to deal with threats in the North West and other regions.This recruitment drive is expected to greatly increase the number of soldiers available, allowing for better coverage of important areas, quicker responses to new threats, and improved protection for civilians and national infrastructure.