The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has announced plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers to boost the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army amid escalating security challenges nationwide.

 

Gen. Shaibu made the disclosure on Wednesday during an operational visit to the 1 Division, Nigerian Army, in Kaduna, where he addressed officers ranging from second lieutenants to brigadier generals.

 

 

News gathered that the recruitment initiative is part of a broader strategy to reinforce troop numbers and enhance the Army’s readiness across various theatres of operation.

 

Speaking during the engagement, the COAS noted:

 

“The area of responsibility is vast, and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground. In six months, we aim to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training facilities. If we operate two streams, we can produce up to 24,000 soldiers ready for deployment.”

 

According to him, the new training facilities — approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — are strategically established to produce personnel skilled in modern warfare, tactical operations, and advanced weapon handling. The goal, he said, is to ensure that recruits are battle-ready immediately after completing their training.

 

Gen. Shaibu stressed that the initiative prioritises both numbers and quality, adding that the new soldiers will be thoroughly trained in basic tactics, combat skills, and leadership principles in line with the Army’s professional standards.

 

“This is a desperate time for our nation. The soldiers we train must be ready to tackle the multifaceted security challenges we face. We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led,” he said.

 

Reaffirming the Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, the COAS pledged expanded welfare and support programmes for both new and existing personnel. He urged officers to mentor incoming recruits to maintain discipline, uphold core values, and strengthen operational excellence.

 

During his visit, Gen. Shaibu also held discussions with officers on operational logistics, welfare initiatives, and ongoing efforts to boost the Army’s capacity to respond to threats across the North West and other operational zones.