By RismadarVoice Media
December 13, 2025
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (NAM), has charged 3,439 newly trained recruits of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, discipline, integrity, and professionalism as they formally join the Service.
The recruits, drawn from the 89 Regular Intake of the Nigerian Army, successfully completed six months of intensive basic military training at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and were formally inducted during a Passing Out Parade held today, December 13.
Describing the parade as a “testament to your dedication and perseverance,” the COAS noted that it showcased the recruits’ discipline, combat skills, and esprit de corps acquired during training.
Addressing the parade as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu stated that the successful completion of training reflects the recruits’ hard work, commitment, and discipline.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the additional manpower in strengthening national security, noting that the Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational security threats, making the induction of new soldiers critical towards sustaining operational readiness, nationwide.
“You have been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering, now entrusted with the sacred duty of safeguarding the territorial integrity of our nation. I have no doubt that you will rise to the challenges ahead and serve with honour, courage, and professionalism,” he said.
“The Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational security threats. Your induction today is not only a boost to our manpower, it’s a reinforcement of our commitment towards ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian. You are now part of a professional, combat-ready force capable of decisively responding to any threat to our nation.”
COAS commended Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, for its historic role in producing professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, describing it as the backbone of the Army’s training architecture.
“I assure you that the Depot will continue to receive unwavering support in terms of logistics, training infrastructure, personnel welfare in sustaining its high standards,” he added.
Lieutenant General Shaibu urged the recruits to uphold discipline, integrity, respect for human rights, and the rule of law in the discharge of their duties, stressing that these values form the cornerstone of professional soldiering.
Reminding them of the Oath of Allegiance they had taken, he cautioned:
“By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Avoid any act that may tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army or our nation. Serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority.”
The Army Chief expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and sister security agencies for their continued support to the Nigerian Army.
He also commended the Commandant, instructors, and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their professionalism, commitments towards producing disciplined and operationally effective soldiers.
“Congratulations to the passing-out recruits, your parents, guardians on this remarkable achievement. May your careers be distinguished, your services exemplary, and your deployment to various Army formations safe and fulfilling,” the COAS concluded.
