The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen its operational capacity and intensify the fight against insecurity across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, disclosed the plan on Friday, June 26, during a briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi, Shaibu said expanding the Army’s manpower remains critical to confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
According to him, the newly established recruit training depot at Amasiri Edda has expanded the Army’s training capacity, making it the third institution dedicated to preparing new soldiers for service.
He said, “Manpower is as important as the equipment required to fight insecurity. To this end, we have expanded our recruitment scope by establishing another training depot at Amasiri Edda, making it the third institution to train able-bodied civilians for the Nigerian Army, thereby enhancing our manpower.
“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 added.
Shaibu explained that the Army has also established new brigades and operational units while reviewing its deployment structure to address emerging security challenges more effectively.
READ ALSO: Army Foils Kidnap Attempts, Rescue 10 Victims in Plateau, Kaduna
He noted that investment in modern equipment, combat support systems and strategic partnerships has further improved the Army’s operational readiness.
The Army chief said his leadership has prioritised infrastructure development, personnel welfare, professionalism and stronger civil-military relations since assuming office seven months ago.
He said the Army is working towards becoming “a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
Shaibu added that the military is adopting modern technology to improve operations while maintaining respect for human rights during missions nationwide.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces.
“I urge all Nigerians to continue to support the Nigerian Army. 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.
The Army also announced that activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration have commenced, culminating on July 6 with a ceremonial parade, awards presentation and the African Land Forces Forum 2026, where military leaders and defence experts from across the continent will discuss regional security and showcase modern defence technologies.