The Nigerian Army Depot Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, on Wednesday, passed out more than 3,000 newly trained recruits with a charge by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, to them to uphold the highest standards of discipline, loyalty and professionalism.

The COAS also tasked them on unwavering loyalty to the Constitution, as well as constituted authority, urging the new recruits to remain vigilant, disciplined and mission-oriented.

Shaibu stated that their rigorous training was carefully structured to prepare them for the realities of modern warfare and Nigeria’s complex security environment. He reminded them that the nation has made substantial investments in their training and expects them to justify that trust through courage, professionalism, and selfless service.

The passing out parade represents a significant reinforcement of the Nigerian Army’s manpower capacity, in line with the Federal Government’s intensified efforts to address the current security challenges and strengthen national defence.

It also follows similar recent recruit graduations at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria and the newly established training depot in Osogbo, Osun State, reflecting a deliberate and sustained expansion of the Army’s force generation capability.

On June 27, 2026, the Osogbo Depot graduated 8,000 soldiers to enhance ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other emerging security threats across the country.

The COAS had said during their passing out parade that the recruitment forms part of the Federal Government’s directive to the Army to recruit 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen its force structure.

Shaibu described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda Depot as a strategic step towards enhancing the Nigerian Army’s training infrastructure and manpower development in line with its transformation agenda.

He commended the Commandant, instructors, and support staff for their dedication to producing competent and combat-ready soldiers capable of contributing effectively to ongoing operations nationwide.

In his remarks, Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, lauded the Nigerian Army for siting the depot in the state, describing it as a critical national asset that has improved local security, stimulated economic activities and created opportunities for residents of Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.

The ceremony attracted senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, families and other dignitaries. It featured a colourful parade, precision drills and the presentation of awards to outstanding recruits.