The Nigerian Army on Saturday formally inducted 3,391 new soldiers at the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, marking a historic milestone as the first-ever Passing Out Parade held at the depot since its establishment.
The event, which underscored the Army’s expanding training infrastructure, was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.
Addressing the recruits, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, charged them to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage and patriotism as they begin their military careers under the banner of the Nigerian Army.
Describing the ceremony as historic, the COAS reminded the recruits of their unique status as the pioneer set trained at the Osogbo depot, urging them to wear the distinction with pride and conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of the institution throughout their service years.
“You are the pioneer set, and you must wear this badge with pride. Conduct yourselves as worthy ambassadors of this institution throughout your careers,” Shaibu said.
Against the backdrop of Nigeria’s evolving and complex security landscape, the Army chief urged the new soldiers to rely on the strength of their training and confront operational challenges with confidence rather than fear.
He further reassured them of the Army leadership’s commitment to their welfare under his Soldier First policy, stressing that personnel remain the backbone of the force.
“Our soldiers remain the core and enduring strength of the Nigerian Army. Uphold the core values of the Army and develop the determination to excel in your lives and careers,” he added.
Shaibu also emphasised the enormous responsibility placed on the recruits in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and internal security, while commending the Commandant, officers, instructors, and support staff of the Osogbo depot for successfully molding the recruits into disciplined and combat-ready soldiers.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, praised the Nigerian Army for its sustained commitment to national security, particularly its operations against banditry and kidnapping across the country.
He urged the newly inducted soldiers to serve with honour and dedication, describing them as critical custodians of peace and stability in Nigeria.
The colourful parade concluded with the formal induction of the 3,391 soldiers, officially ushering them into active service and reinforcing the Army’s resolve to strengthen its ranks amid ongoing security challenges nationwide.
