Inside Zaria Parade: Why the Nigerian Army’s 3,439 New Recruits Got a Rare, No-Nonsense Warning From the COAS
By Passman Akpos
Zaria, Kaduna State — The Nigerian Army has inducted 3,439 newly trained soldiers into its ranks, as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (NAM), charged them to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
The recruits, members of the 89 Regular Intake of the Nigerian Army, passed out after completing six months of rigorous military training at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria. They were formally inducted during a colourful Passing Out Parade held on Friday, marking their official entry into active service.
Addressing the parade as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the ceremony as a testament to the recruits’ dedication, perseverance and commitment to duty. He noted that their successful completion of training reflected hard work, discipline and resilience.
“You have been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering and are now entrusted with the sacred duty of safeguarding the territorial integrity of our nation,” the COAS said. “I have no doubt that you will rise to the challenges ahead and serve with honour, courage and professionalism.”
The Army Chief stressed that the injection of 3,439 additional manpower was timely, given the evolving nature of domestic and transnational security threats confronting the country. According to him, the new recruits would play a critical role in sustaining the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness nationwide.
“The Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational security threats. Your induction today is not only a boost to our manpower but a reinforcement of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian,” he added.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also commended the Depot Nigerian Army for its historic role in producing professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, describing the institution as the backbone of the Army’s training capabilities. He assured that the depot would continue to receive strong support in logistics, infrastructure and personnel welfare to maintain its high standards.
The COAS further urged the recruits to uphold discipline, integrity and respect for human rights in all operations, emphasizing that these values form the foundation of professional soldiering. He reminded them of the Oath of Allegiance they had taken, warning against any conduct capable of tarnishing the image of the Nigerian Army or the nation.
“By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Serve with honour, dignity and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority,” he cautioned.
Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and other security agencies for their continued support to the Nigerian Army. He also praised the Commandant, instructors and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their dedication to training professional soldiers.
Concluding, the Army Chief congratulated the new soldiers, their parents and guardians, and wished them distinguished careers and safe, fulfilling deployments across various Army formations.
