Waidi Shuaibu, chief of army staff (COAS), says there are plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers to enhance the military operational capacity nationwide.
Speaking on Wednesday during an operational visit to the 1 division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, Shuaibu said the recruitment drive is part of the army’s strategy to tackle evolving security threats and improve troops’ readiness across the country.
“The area of responsibility is vast, and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground,” he said.
“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.”
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The COAS said the new training centres, approved by President Bola Tinubu, are strategically located to equip recruits with skills in modern warfare, tactical operations, and weapon handling, ensuring they are operationally ready upon completion.
He said the recruitment drive is expected to significantly boost the army’s manpower, enabling better coverage of critical areas, faster response to threats, and improved protection of civilians and national infrastructure.
Shuaibu said the initiative focuses not only on increasing numbers but also on maintaining quality and operational effectiveness.
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He said the recruits will be trained in basic tactics, combat skills, and leadership to uphold 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,” he said.
“We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led.”
The COAS also reiterated the army’s commitment to the “soldier first” philosophy, promising enhanced welfare and support programmes for both new and existing personnel.
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He urged senior officers to mentor the new recruits, ensuring continuity in discipline, core values, and operational excellence.
