The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has appealed to parents, traditional rulers and community leaders across the South-East to encourage more young people to join the Nigerian Army, expressing concern that the region has consistently failed to meet its recruitment quota.
Shaibu made the appeal during the passing-out parade of 2,989 regular recruits at the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot, Amasiri-Edda, in Ebonyi State. He said the Army established the training depot to improve enlistment from the South-East and expand opportunities for qualified youths.
Army Chief Raises Concern Over Recruitment
The COAS said the South-East has repeatedly failed to utilise its allocated recruitment slots despite efforts to make enlistment more accessible.
He urged parents, guardians and community leaders to encourage eligible young men and women to consider military service, describing it as a noble career built on patriotism, discipline and national service.
“The recruitment quota from this zone has not been fully utilised. This should not continue.”
He added that the Nigerian Army offers young Nigerians an opportunity to develop leadership skills while contributing to national security.
New Recruits Charged to Defend the Nation
Shaibu reminded the newly graduated soldiers that Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges.
According to him, terrorism, insurgency, banditry, separatist violence, organised crime and cyber threats demand discipline, courage and unwavering commitment from military personnel.
He urged the recruits to remain professional and uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army throughout their careers.
Army Warns Against Social Media Misuse
The Army Chief also cautioned personnel against violating the military’s social media policy.
Furthermore, he warned that sharing operational information, military photographs, sensitive locations or unverified content online could compromise national security and attract disciplinary action, including dismissal from service.
Ebonyi Reaffirms Support for Army
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
He pledged to maintain a peaceful environment for military training and strengthen cooperation between the Army and host communities. Meanwhile, the governor assured the military of the state’s continued partnership in promoting security and national development.
