Nigerian Army Graduates 3,000 New Soldiers in Ebonyi to Boost Security Operations

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Nigerian Army has graduated more than 3,000 newly trained soldiers as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its manpower and enhance national security across the country.

The recruits passed out during a ceremony held at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda in Ebonyi State, marking another milestone in the Army’s sustained recruitment and force expansion programme aimed at tackling Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

Addressing the graduating soldiers, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, urged them to uphold discipline, loyalty, professionalism and commitment to duty as they begin active military service.

He noted that the rigorous training they underwent was designed to prepare them for the realities of modern warfare and the complex security environment facing the nation. The Army chief reminded the recruits that the country had invested heavily in their training and expected them to serve with courage, integrity and dedication.

Shaibu stressed that their loyalty to the Constitution and constituted authorities must remain unwavering, urging them to remain vigilant and mission-focused throughout their careers.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the graduation represents a significant reinforcement of the Nigerian Army’s manpower capacity and aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts to improve national defence and security.

The Army noted that the exercise follows similar recruit graduations recently conducted at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria and the newly established training depot in Osogbo, reflecting a deliberate strategy to expand training infrastructure and increase the Army’s operational strength.

The Chief of Army Staff described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda training depot as a strategic investment in manpower development and military readiness, adding that it supports the Nigerian Army’s ongoing transformation agenda.

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

Speaking at the event, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, praised the Nigerian Army for establishing the training facility in the state.

The governor described the depot as a valuable national asset that has improved security, stimulated economic activities and created opportunities for residents of Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies in promoting peace, stability and development.

The colourful passing-out parade attracted senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the graduates and other dignitaries. Activities included precision drills, ceremonial displays and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits.

Military authorities said the graduation underscores the Army’s commitment to building a disciplined, professional and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats across Nigeria.