COAS Urges New Recruits To Be Battle-Ready Against Terrorists, Bandits
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has called on newly inducted soldiers of the Nigerian Army to prepare for the tough task of confronting terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening the country’s peace and stability.
Speaking during the Passing-Out Parade of the 86 Regular Recruits Intake at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria, Kaduna State, General Oluyede said the recruits were joining the military at a critical moment in the nation’s history, marked by escalating security challenges across several regions.
He urged the new soldiers to demonstrate absolute commitment, courage, and professionalism as they assume active roles in defending Nigeria against internal and external threats.
“You are joining the Army at a time of great national need. The Nigerian Army is on the frontline of the battle against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality. You must be mentally and physically prepared to face these challenges,” Oluyede stated.
He warned against any form of misconduct, noting that there is no place in the military for indiscipline or cowardice. The Army Chief reminded the recruits that their training was designed to instill in them the values of loyalty, discipline, and selfless service, all of which are essential to the success of military operations.
“You must at all times conduct yourselves in line with the rules of engagement and the code of conduct of the Nigerian Army. You are to serve with integrity and honour. The uniform you wear is a symbol of trust, and you must not betray it,” he said.
General Oluyede also commended the training officers and staff of the Depot for their dedication to producing well-trained and combat-ready soldiers, while assuring that the Army would continue to invest in capacity building, welfare, and morale-boosting initiatives for troops on the field.
The parade, which marked the official induction of over 6,000 new soldiers into the Nigerian Army, featured a display of military drills and tactical manoeuvres. It was attended by senior military officers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and families of the recruits.
The new batch of soldiers is expected to bolster the ranks of troops currently engaged in major operations across the country, including Operations Hadin Kai, Hadarin Daji, Safe Haven, and Whirl Stroke, among others. Their deployment is anticipated to boost the Army’s efforts in securing lives, property, and critical infrastructure amid ongoing security threats in various regions.
