Following the growing security challenges and concerns over manpower shortages in the military, the Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to encourage secondary school students to consider careers in the Armed Forces as part of measures to strengthen national defence.

 

The initiative was unveiled during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 Public Speaking Engagement held at Osadenis Mixed Secondary School in Asaba, Delta State.

 

The public speaking engagement formed part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026, reflecting the military renewed commitment to engaging young Nigerians, promoting patriotism and encouraging greater public understanding of the Army’s role in safeguarding the nation’s security and territorial integrity.

 

The outreach programme, also sought to deepen civil-military relations by fostering mutual understanding, building public trust and correcting misconceptions about the institution’s constitutional responsibilities and contributions to national peace, security and development.

 

Speaking at the event, the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Asaba, Brigadier General Modunfolu Shenibare, represented by the Assistant Chief of Staff (Training), Lieutenant Sylvester Nyambe, encouraged students to consider joining the Nigerian Army after completing their education.

 

He described military service as a noble and rewarding career dedicated to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

 

According to him, the Nigerian Army remains a professional, disciplined and people-oriented institution committed not only to safeguarding the country but also to supporting civil authorities in maintaining internal security and contributing to national development through various community-based initiatives.

 

Nyambe informed the students about the numerous career opportunities available in the Army, explaining the various recruitment pathways, eligibility requirements, training processes, career progression prospects and welfare benefits available to military personnel.

 

He expressed optimism that the engagement would give students a deeper understanding of the Army, strengthen their confidence in the institution and inspire many to pursue careers in military service.

 

Aside these, the Brigade Commander also cautioned the students against social vices capable of destroying their future aspirations.

 

He warned against cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, examination malpractice, bullying and other forms of misconduct, stressing that such behaviours not only jeopardise personal ambitions but also undermine national development.

 

The Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, commended the Nigerian Army for promoting stronger civil-military relations through educational outreach initiatives.

 

Represented by the Deputy Director of Education, Dr. Kingsley Emeshili, the commissioner described the programme as timely and significant, noting that its emphasis on patriotism, integrity, responsible citizenship and national unity among secondary school students deserved widespread support.

 

With the theme: “Promoting patriotism, integrity, responsible citizenship, and national unity”, he urged the students to embrace discipline, hard work, honesty and respect for constituted authority, describing these virtues as the foundation of individual success and sustainable national development.

 

Also speaking, the Principal of Osadenis Mixed Secondary School, Asaba, Mrs. Patience Aguonye, applauded the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity across the country.

 

She appealed to the Federal Government to further motivate military personnel through improved remuneration and the provision of more sophisticated weapons and equipment to enhance their operational effectiveness against criminal elements.

 

According to her, the invaluable contributions of the Armed Forces to the country’s security deserve greater support, adding that better welfare and modern equipment would enable troops to record even greater successes in the fight against banditry and terrorism.