Military Expansion: Army Inducts Over 3,390 New Soldiers in Osogbo

Nigeria’s military capacity received a major boost on Saturday, December 20, 2025, as the Nigerian Army formally welcomed 3,391 newly trained soldiers at a landmark ceremony in Osogbo, Osun State. The event was historic, marking the first Passing Out Parade (POP) ever held at the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, since the facility was established.

The new entrants, drawn from the 89 Regular Recruits Intake, completed several months of rigorous physical drills, tactical training, and mental conditioning. Their training was tailored to equip them for today’s security realities, including asymmetric warfare and internal security challenges.

While addressing the parade, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the moment as a defining one, both for the recruits and for the Nigerian Army. He noted that the soldiers were joining the force at a crucial time and reminded them that, as the first graduating batch from the Osogbo Depot, they would set the standard for those who follow.

General Shaibu stressed that loyalty to the Nigerian Constitution and the protection of innocent citizens must remain central to their duty. He urged the new soldiers to approach their assignments with discipline, professionalism, and a strong sense of national service.

“You are now part of the responsibility of defending our nation,” he told the recruits. “The task ahead will not be easy, but you must face it with confidence, courage, and commitment, not fear.”

Strengthening Capacity and Soldier Welfare

The induction forms part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its manpower in response to security threats such as insurgency, banditry, and organized cross-border crime. The COAS used the occasion to restate his “Soldier First Command Mantra,” assuring the recruits that their welfare would remain a top priority. This, he said, includes access to quality medical care, improved living conditions, and modern operational equipment.

In addition, Lieutenant General Shaibu announced that the newly approved Nigerian Army Depot in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, will soon commence training activities. According to him, expanding training facilities across the country will reduce pressure on the Zaria depot and help build a more flexible and regionally balanced force.

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Key Highlights of the Ceremony

Number of Recruits: 3,391 soldiers from the 89 Regular Recruits Intake
Venue: Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, Osun State (first-ever graduation)
Dignitaries Present: Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, alongside senior military officers
Core Message: Discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights, and operational readiness
Policy Emphasis: The “Soldier First” initiative aimed at improving morale and welfare

The Osogbo POP not only marked the end of training for thousands of young Nigerians but also signaled a new chapter in the Army’s efforts to expand, modernize, and respond more effectively to the nation’s security needs.

Military Expansion: Army Inducts Over 3,390 New Soldiers in Osogbo