Mirian Gom 
OSOGBO, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army on Saturday graduated 8,000 newly trained soldiers from the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo, Osun State, in a major reinforcement of ongoing military operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
The Passing Out Parade marks a significant step in the Army’s efforts to build a professional, combat-ready and mission-oriented force capable of supporting Nigeria’s national security objectives.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, said the recruitment exercise forms part of the Federal Government’s directive for the Army to enlist an additional 28,000 personnel to strengthen its operational capacity.
According to him, the recruitment initiative is designed to address manpower shortages, improve operational effectiveness and enhance the Army’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges nationwide.
“The newly graduated soldiers have undergone rigorous military training aimed at developing their physical endurance, tactical competence, leadership abilities and fighting spirit required for modern military operations,” he said.
Shaibu noted that the recruits are joining the military at a critical period when troops remain actively engaged in several theatres of operation to defend the country’s territorial integrity and protect lives and property.
He urged the soldiers to uphold discipline, courage, loyalty, professionalism and selfless service throughout their careers.
“Substantial national resources have been invested in your recruitment, training and development. You must justify the confidence reposed in you by remaining committed to duty and conducting operations with professionalism and respect for human rights,” he said.
Also speaking, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi, congratulated the graduates and commended their resilience and determination.
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Korede Abdullah 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
