The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen its fight against insecurity across the country.
The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration. He was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi.
According to the Army, the recruitment expansion follows the establishment of a new training depot at Amasiri Edda, which becomes the third institution dedicated to training new recruits.
Shaibu said increasing manpower remains essential to tackling the country’s security challenges, adding that the new depot will significantly boost the Army’s capacity to train personnel.
“With this action, the Nigerian Army is expected to recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops to help stem the tide of insecurity across the country,” he said.
The Army also disclosed that it has created additional brigades and units while reviewing its force structure to improve deployments and respond more effectively to evolving security threats nationwide.
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Beyond expanding personnel strength, Shaibu said the service has continued to enhance its operational capability through the acquisition of modern military platforms, combat support equipment and strategic partnerships.
He added that the Army has prioritised personnel welfare through its “Soldier-First” culture, alongside recognising acts of gallantry and upgrading infrastructure across formations nationwide.
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Reflecting on his seven months in office, the Army chief said progress had been recorded in operations, infrastructure, manpower development, professionalism and civil-military relations.
He explained that his leadership is focused on building a more professional, adaptable and combat-ready force capable of effectively carrying out its constitutional responsibilities in collaboration with other security agencies.
The Army is also adopting modern technology to strengthen its operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, kidnappers, separatist groups and other criminal elements.
Shaibu assured Nigerians that troops would continue to operate within the rules of engagement while respecting human rights.
He also unveiled activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, themed “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
The week-long programme includes nationwide prayers, school outreach activities, medical outreach, charity programmes, lectures and military exhibitions, before concluding on July 6 with a ceremonial parade, awards presentation, equipment display and research exhibition.
The grand finale will coincide with the African Land Forces Forum 2026, where military leaders, policymakers and defence experts from across Africa will discuss regional security and showcase the latest defence technologies.
