By Attah Ede
The Nigerian Army on Friday said that it has concluded arrangements to recruit no fewer than 28,000 more soldiers following the establishment of a new training depot in Amasiri-Edda, spanning Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made this know at a media briefing in Abuja as part of activities heralding the 2026 Army Day Celebration, NADCEL.
Lt. General Shaibu maintained that the Army is spreading its recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges confronting the country.
The COAS who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Bamidele Alabi, stated that this year’s Army Day celebration is with the theme “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army” .
He explained that the theme laid strong emphasis on national security, civil-military cooperation, technological advancement, and regional defence collaboration.
“As part of ongoing reforms, the Army has established additional Brigades and Units, inducted modern combat equipment, strengthened strategic partnerships, improved infrastructure nationwide, and prioritised troop welfare under its “Soldier First” policy.
“We have continued to confront major security threats including activities of Boko Haram, kidnappers, bandits, separatist groups, and other non-state actors threatening national stability”, he stated.
“Activities for the week-long celebration officially commenced on Friday, June 26, with Juma’at prayers across Army formations nationwide. On July 3, the Army will organise public speaking programmes in secondary schools across the country.
“July 4 will feature the Army Day Celebration Lecture, an award ceremony, media interaction, and a charity outreach by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, NAOWA, in Port Harcourt.
“Free medical outreach programmes and the commissioning of Civil-Military Cooperation projects in Port Harcourt communities are scheduled for July 5.
“The celebration will culminate on July 6 with a grand military parade, equipment display, research and development exhibition, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards.
“A major highlight of this year’s event is the African Land Forces Forum 2026, themed “Securing Africa: Advanced Defence, United Efforts,” which will bring together African army chiefs, senior military leaders, policymakers, defence industry representatives, and security experts to strengthen cooperation and discuss emerging defence innovations.
“An international defence exhibition will also showcase advanced military technologies and combat platforms for possible procurement by participating countries.” He said
The Army urged the media to continue reporting responsibly, promote national unity, and support ongoing security operations, reaffirming that the institution belongs to all Nigerians.
