The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has strengthened the Nigerian Army’s operational capacity by deploying over 8,000 newly trained soldiers following their successful graduation from the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo, Osun State.
The Passing Out Parade, held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, marks a significant increase in military manpower as the Army intensifies operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the graduation forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the Nigerian Army to recruit an additional 28,000 personnel to optimise its force structure and improve its ability to tackle evolving security challenges.
He noted that the recruits underwent rigorous physical, tactical, and combat training tailored to meet the demands of modern warfare.
The Army Chief urged the newly enlisted personnel to maintain professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights as they deploy to various operational theatres nationwide.
Shaibu expressed confidence that the fresh intake would significantly enhance the Army’s effectiveness in ongoing military operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.
Also speaking at the event, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the graduating soldiers and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Armed Forces in their efforts to secure the country.
