Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has announced plans by the Nigerian Army to recruit an additional 28,000 personnel as part of efforts to strengthen its manpower and intensify the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
Speaking on Friday during a press briefing to herald the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Abuja, Nam said the expansion followed the establishment of a third training depot at Amasiri Edda to boost recruitment capacity.
According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army has also established additional brigades and units, inducted modern combat platforms, expanded infrastructure nationwide and strengthened partnerships to improve operational effectiveness.
Shuaibu said, “With this action, the Nigerian Army is expected to recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops to help stem the tide of insecurity across the country.”
He said troops had continued to degrade the operational capabilities of Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, kidnappers, separatist groups and other criminal elements threatening national security.
The Army chief noted that this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration, themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” would commemorate 163 years of the Army’s existence.
He disclosed that activities lined up for the celebration include medical outreaches, educational programmes, charity activities, public lectures, equipment exhibitions and the African Land Forces Forum, which will bring together army chiefs and defence experts from across Africa.
Shuaibu appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the military and urged the media to partner with security agencies in promoting national unity and combating insecurity.
”This Army belongs to you; it is your Army. Let us all demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the ideals of peace and unity for national development,” he said.
About the Author
