Over 3,000 newly trained soldiers have graduated the military’s training efforts at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, as part of a nationwide operation to build up the military’s manpower and boost its capacity to respond to changing security challenges across the country.
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), commanded the passing-out parade, telling the new soldiers that they were expected to maintain primacy in their duty as soldiers in such a role, and to adhere to the highest standards of discipline, professionalism and loyalty as they take up active military service.
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He reminded the fresh recruits that they had been exposed to the hardships of fighting in the days of today and the Nigerian security environment was a complex one; he called on them to be bold, resolute, mission orientated and stand firm in the defense of the independence of the country.
“Today’s graduation is another stride towards ensuring the Army’s operational readiness and is part of the Federal Government’s ambitious plans to expand the size of its forces that have been hit by terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other acts of violence in the nation,” Shaibu said.
The exercise comes after the recent graduation of 850 recruits from the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and Osogbo, Osun State training camp, which has seen the Nigerian Army keep increasing its force generating capacity, he added.
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While giving details about the Amasiri-Edda training depot, the Army Chief named the investment in the military infrastructure as strategic, noting that it would boost capacity building and enhance the Army’s readiness in responding to various security threats throughout the country. He praised the commandant, the trainers and other staff for making combat trained soldiers that are able to perform well in the current operations around the country.
The Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, representing the host state, expressed his appreciation for the Nigerian Army having located the Depot in Ebonyi and also stated that the depot was a key national asset which has contributed immensely to the security of the federation, stimulating the business opportunities of the residents of the state and the neighbouring communities.
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The colourful event was done with military drills, ceremonial parade and presentation of award to excellent recruits, while it highlighted the Army’s dedication to the establishment of a disciplined, professional and operationally sound army unit to meet the security threats in Nigeria.
