The Nigerian Army has announced a major recruitment drive to add 28,000 personnel to its ranks, aiming to bolster its capacity to combat insecurity across the country. The plan was disclosed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Friday in Abuja during a briefing ahead of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
New Training Depot Established
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plan (Army), Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi, Shaibu said the expansion follows the establishment of a new training depot at Amasiri Edda. This brings the total number of Army training institutions for recruits to three. “Manpower is as important as the equipment required to fight insecurity. To this end, we have expanded our recruitment scope by establishing another training depot at Amasiri Edda,” he stated.
Boosting Manpower for Operations
The recruitment programme is designed to increase manpower available for operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities affecting parts of the country. “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,” Shaibu added.
Shaibu also revealed that the Army has created additional brigades and units while reviewing its structure to improve deployment and response to emerging security challenges. He emphasized that the military is strengthening its capabilities through modern equipment, technology, and improved partnerships.
Focus on Welfare and Professionalism
The Chief of Army Staff said his administration remains committed to building a professional and combat-ready force, with emphasis on personnel welfare and operational effectiveness. “We are also improving our deployment strategies and employing modern technology as a force multiplier in our efforts to quickly degrade all forms of criminality across the country,” he said.
Shaibu urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military, stating that collective cooperation remains important in addressing security challenges.
