Nigerian Army Set To Recruit Over 28,000 Soldier To Combat Insecurity In The Country

Following the construction of a new training depot in the Ebonyi State local government areas of Amasiri-Edda, Afikpo, and Edda, the Nigerian Army announced on Friday that it has set up equipment for the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers.

When revealing this, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff, stated, “The Army is expanding recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges nationwide.”

Speaking at a press conference to launch the 2026 Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), the COAS, represented by Major General Bamidele Alabi, Chief of Policy and Plans, stated that this year’s celebration represents the Army’s changing role in defending the country and serving the people.

He stated that the Army has strengthened strategic alliances, added new brigades and units, introduced cutting-edge combat gear, upgraded infrastructure across the country, and put troop welfare first under its “Soldier First” policy as part of ongoing reforms.

According to him, the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which has as its theme “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” emphasizes regional defense cooperation, civil-military cooperation, national security, and technological advancement.

The Army will be able to evaluate its operational performance, commemorate successes, and further position the military as a vital tool of national unity, integration, and development during the week-long event, he said.

He pointed out that the Nigerian Army has kept up its modernization efforts despite facing significant security risks throughout the nation, such as Boko Haram activities, kidnappers, bandits, separatist organizations, and other non-state actors endangering national stability.

He continued by saying that the Army has remained dedicated to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and assisting civil authorities in upholding law and order under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.

Thinking back on the history of the organization, he stated that the Nigerian Army began as a small indigenous force called Glover Hausas in 1863 and eventually developed into what it is today.

Juma’at prayers were held across Army formations nationwide on Friday, June 26, 2026, marking the official start of the celebration.

The army will host public speaking events in secondary schools around the nation on Friday, July 3.

The Nigerian Army Day Celebration Lecture, an award ceremony for the Chief of Army Staff, media interaction, and a charitable outreach program by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) in Port Harcourt are all planned for Saturday, July 4.

In addition to commissioning Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects in nearby communities, the army will offer free medical outreach programs to residents of specific Port Harcourt communities on Sunday, July 5.

On Monday, July 6, there will be a large military parade, a display of equipment, an exhibition of research and development, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards to cap off the festivities.

The African Land Forces Forum 2026, with the theme “Securing Africa: Advanced Defense, United Efforts,” will be a major highlight of this year’s event.

African army chiefs, senior military leaders, policymakers, representatives of the defense industry, and security experts will convene at the international defense forum, which is being organized by Great Minds Event Limited, to discuss emerging defense innovations and to strengthen cooperation.

Additionally, cutting-edge military technologies and combat platforms will be on display at an international defense exhibition for potential purchase by participating nations.

The army expressed optimism that this year’s festivities will foster creativity, fortify regional and international alliances, and enhance strategic cooperation on defense and security issues throughout Africa.

The army acknowledged Nigeria’s security issues while urging the media to support ongoing security operations, foster national unity, and continue reporting responsibly.

You own the Nigerian Army. It’s your army. Let’s all show our patriotism and dedication to the principles of harmony and peace for the advancement of our country.