The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has announced plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers to boost the operational strength of the Nigerian Army amid rising security challenges.
This was made known in a post on X Wednesday by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency security expert.
According to the report, Shaibu revealed the plan on Wednesday during an operational visit to the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, where he addressed officers ranging from second lieutenants to lieutenant colonels.
He said the initiative is part of the Army’s strategy to enhance its readiness and expand manpower for deployments across the country.
According to him, three new training facilities approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will train 12,000 soldiers within six months, with the capacity to double the figure to 24,000 if two streams are run simultaneously.
Shaibu noted that the facilities are strategically located to produce recruits equipped with modern warfare skills, tactical knowledge, and improved weapon handling.
He said the focus is not only on increasing troop numbers but also on ensuring high-quality training.
He added that the recruits will be trained in basic tactics, combat operations, and leadership principles to strengthen the Army’s professional standards.
The COAS reiterated the Army’s commitment to the “Soldier First” concept, promising improved welfare and support systems for both new and existing personnel. He urged senior officers to mentor incoming recruits to sustain discipline, core values, and operational excellence.
The recruitment drive is expected to significantly boost manpower, strengthen troop deployment in critical areas, and enhance the Army’s capacity to respond to threats nationwide.
During his visit, Shaibu also held discussions with officers on operational logistics, welfare initiatives, and ongoing efforts to improve the Army’s capabilities in the North West and other theatres of operation.