The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit 28,000 additional soldiers following the establishment of a new training depot in Amasiri-Edda, Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, disclosed this on Friday during a media briefing to herald the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi, the COAS said the recruitment is part of efforts to strengthen the Army’s manpower in response to Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
“The Army is expanding recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges nationwide,” he said.
Shaibu noted that the Army has also established additional brigades and units, acquired modern combat equipment, strengthened strategic partnerships, improved infrastructure and prioritised personnel welfare under its “Soldier First” policy.
According to him, this year’s Army Day Celebration, themed, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” will focus on national security, civil-military cooperation, technological advancement and regional defence collaboration.
He said the Army remains committed to tackling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, separatist activities and other security threats across the country.
“The Nigerian Army belongs to you. It is your Army. Let us all demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the ideals of peace and unity for national development,” he added.
The week-long celebration began on Friday with Juma’at prayers across Army formations and will end on July 6 with a military parade, equipment display, research exhibition and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards. A major highlight will be the African Land Forces Forum 2026, which will bring together military leaders and defence experts from across the continent.
