The Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has unveiled a major recruitment and training plan aimed at expanding the strength and operational readiness of the Nigerian Army as the country continues to face rising security challenges. The announcement was made on Wednesday during his operational visit to the 1 Division Nigerian Army in Kaduna, where he met with officers from the ranks of second lieutenant to brigadier general.
Nigeria Startup News gathered that the new recruitment drive forms part of a wider strategy to reinforce manpower and improve troop deployment across different theatres of operation. Speaking during the engagement, the Army Chief said the current security situation demands a stronger and more agile force capable of responding quickly to threats nationwide.
According to him, the Army plans to train 12,000 soldiers within six months from three new training facilities and may increase the output to 24,000 personnel if two training streams are operated. He stated, “The area of responsibility is vast, and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground. In six months, we aim to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training facilities. If we operate two streams, we can produce up to 24,000 soldiers ready for deployment.”
Gen. Shaibu explained that the facilities approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are being set up to develop personnel skilled in modern warfare, tactical operations, and advanced weapon handling. He said the intention is to ensure that every recruit graduates with the ability to join active operations immediately.
He noted that the initiative focuses on both quality and numbers, adding that new personnel will undergo intensive training in combat skills, leadership, and basic tactics to meet the Army’s professional standards. He stressed, “This is a desperate time for our nation. The soldiers we train must be ready to tackle the multifaceted security challenges we face. We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led.”
During the visit, the Army Chief held talks with officers on welfare, logistics, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the force across the North West and other key zones. He urged senior officers to mentor incoming recruits to maintain discipline, uphold values, and support operational excellence.
The recruitment programme is expected to increase manpower, improve response time to emerging threats, and enhance protection of communities and national infrastructure across the country.
