Oluwafunbi Bello 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 soldiers as part of a major expansion aimed at strengthening operations against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the country.
The military said the recruitment drive follows the establishment of a new training depot and reflects growing efforts to address persistent security challenges.
Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu disclosed the plan on Friday in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
He was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Maj Gen Bamidele Alabi.
“Manpower is as important as the equipment required to fight insecurity,” Shaibu 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.”
The Army said the new training facility at Amasiri Edda has increased the number of recruit training institutions to three.
Officials also announced the creation of additional brigades and units to address deployment gaps and improve operational responses.
The Army chief said investments in technology, modern equipment and strategic partnerships were also helping to strengthen military operations.
According to him, troops remain engaged in operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits and kidnappers.
Shaibu assured Nigerians that the Army would continue to operate professionally and respect human rights while carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.
He called on citizens to support security agencies in restoring peace.
“This Army belongs to you, it is your Army,” he said.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
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