The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has called on new recruits of the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State, to remain steadfast in their commitment to defending Nigeria against terrorism and insurgency.
Addressing the 6,195 soldiers of the 88 Regular Recruits Intake during their Passing Out Parade on Saturday, Oluyede stressed the significance of professionalism, courage, and resilience. He reminded the fresh soldiers that the Nigerian Army is a disciplined institution charged with protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
“As you pass out today and take your place in this noble profession, be aware that you will form part of our nation’s solutions to the challenges of terrorism and insurgency,” Oluyede said. “Wherever you are deployed, your actions must reflect your training, and you must display courage in the face of adversity.”
He commended the recruits for completing their training, which began on January 13, 2025, and reminded them of the sacrifices that come with military service. “Stand by the oath you have taken and do your duty without forgetting our core values of discipline, loyalty, integrity, selfless service, courage, and respect for others,” he added.
The Army Chief urged the recruits to strive for excellence and uphold the values that define the Nigerian Army. “You must be trustworthy and committed to a currency of excellence, determination, and selfless service,” he charged.
Oluyede also reassured the soldiers of the Army Headquarters’ commitment to their welfare, announcing that preparations for the next batch—the 89 Regular Recruits Intake—were already in progress.
In his remarks, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Nigerian Army. “I appreciate the President, Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast belief in and support of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
What you should know
Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede charged 6,195 newly trained soldiers to carry forward the Army’s legacy of patriotism and resilience. His remarks underscore the military’s ongoing focus on counterterrorism and national security, with a fresh intake already underway.
