In a decisive move to address escalating security challenges, the Nigerian Army is set to deploy 5,937 newly graduated soldiers to various conflict zones across the country. The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, during the passing out parade for the 86th regular recruit intake at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria on Saturday.
Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja, who served as the Special Guest of Honor and Reviewing Officer for the event, emphasized the critical role these new soldiers will play in countering insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality. He stated, “The fresh recruits passing out today will form part of the solution to the challenge of insurgency in the north-east, banditry and cattle rustling in the north-west, and various other security threats across the nation.”
Addressing Security Challenges Nationwide
The COAS highlighted the specific areas where the new soldiers will be deployed:
- North-East: Combatting insurgency.
- North-West: Fighting banditry and cattle rustling.
- North-Central: Addressing farmers/herders clashes.
- South-East: Countering secessionist agitation and cultism.
- South-South and South-West: Tackling militancy and vandalism of critical national assets.
Continuous Training and Welfare Improvements
Lagbaja noted that training does not end at the Depot. The Nigerian Army has instituted post-depot training programs to ensure that soldiers are proficient with various weapons and equipment, enhancing their efficiency in combat situations. He also reassured that the Army is committed to improving welfare packages to meet the medical, recreational, and educational needs of the soldiers, thereby fostering career fulfillment.
Commitment to Duty and Sacrifice
In his address to the new soldiers, the COAS underlined the importance of their role and the sacrifices they are expected to make. “The life of a soldier is one of sacrifice—sacrifice to go wherever you are ordered to, by land, sea, or air; sacrifice to relegate personal comfort and assume duty to the country as a primary concern,” he stated. He encouraged the recruits to uphold the highest standards of discipline, loyalty, integrity, and dedication to duty, reminding them of the high expectations placed upon them by the Nigerian Army and the nation.
Support for Training Institutions
Lagbaja also commended the commandant and instructors at the Depot for their efforts in training the new recruits. He assured them of continued support from the Army headquarters to achieve the training objectives of the institution.
This strategic deployment is part of the Nigerian Army’s broader efforts to bolster security and restore peace across various troubled regions of the country.
