The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged 3,391 newly inducted soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage and patriotism as they begin their military careers.
According to the Acting Director Army Public Relations Col. Appolonoa Anele, the charge was delivered on Saturday during the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake at Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, marking the first batch of soldiers to graduate from the depot since its establishment.
Describing the occasion as a historic milestone, Lt. Gen. Shaibu noted that the parade was the maiden Passing Out Parade of the Osogbo depot, stressing that the graduating recruits, as the pioneer set, carry a special responsibility to uphold the reputation of the institution.
“This ceremony is historic as the first Passing Out Parade of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo. You are the pioneer set and must wear this badge with pride, conducting yourselves as worthy ambassadors of this institution throughout your careers,” the Army Chief said.
He reminded the recruits that they were joining the Nigerian Army at a critical period in the nation’s history, characterised by complex and evolving security challenges. He urged them to rely on the strength gained from their rigorous training and to confront adversity with courage and confidence rather than fear.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu further emphasised that their induction into the Army comes with immense responsibility, particularly in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and contributing to national security. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to the welfare and professional development of its personnel under his “Soldier First” Command Mantra, assuring the new soldiers of sustained moral, physical and material support.
“Our soldiers remain the core and enduring strength of the Nigerian Army. You will be given what you require to succeed, but the nation will also demand much from you. Uphold the core values of the Army and develop the determination to excel in your lives and careers,” he added.
The CoAS also commended the Commandant, officers, instructors and staff of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, for their dedication in training and moulding the recruits into disciplined and combat-ready soldiers. He announced that the newly approved Depot Nigerian Army, Abakaliki, would soon commence training activities to further strengthen manpower development and operational readiness, in line with presidential directives.
In his remarks, the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, praised the Nigerian Army for its sustained commitment to national security and ongoing operations to combat banditry and kidnapping along state borders. He urged the new soldiers to remain loyal to the Army’s core values and to serve as dependable custodians of peace and stability.
The parade concluded with the formal induction of the 3,391 recruits into the Nigerian Army, officially marking the commencement of their service to the nation as professional soldiers.
