Insecurity: Army Chief reveals plans to recruit 24,000 soldiers

*Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, unveils the Federal Government’s plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers to boost the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army amid surging security challenges

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has announced the Federal Government’s plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers to boost the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army (NA).

Gen. Shaibu disclosed this development Wednesday, November 19, 2025, during an operational visit to the 1 Division, Nigerian Army, in Kaduna, in Kaduna State, where the COAS addressed Officers ranging from Second Lieutenants to Brigadier-Generals.

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ConsumerConnect reports the move to build more capacity in the NA is coming amid the reported escalating security challenges across the West African country in recent times.

The proposed recruitment initiative is also said you be part of a broader strategy to reinforce troop numbers and enhance the Army’s readiness across various theatres of operation in Nigeria.

Shaibu also explained: “The area of responsibility is vast, and security challenges are dynamic.

“To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground.”

He stated: “In six months, we aim to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training facilities.

“If we operate two streams, we can produce up to 24,000 soldiers ready for deployment.”

The new training facilities — approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — are strategically established to produce personnel skilled in modern warfare, tactical operations, and advanced weapon handling, said the COAS.

Objective of fresh recruitment initiative, by COAS

Expatiating further on the forthcoming recruitment exercise, Lieutenant-General Shaibu said the objective is to ensure that recruits are battle-ready immediately after completing their training in the new designated Military training institutions.

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He stressed that the initiative prioritises both numbers and quality, adding that the new soldiers would be thoroughly trained in basic tactics, combat skills, and leadership principles in line with the Nigerian Army’s professional standards.

The COAS asserted: “This is a desperate time for our nation.

“The soldiers we train must be ready to tackle the multifaceted security challenges we face.

“We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led.”

Reaffirming the Nigeria Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, Shaibu assured of expanded welfare and support programmes for both new and existing Military personnel.

The COAS, therefore, urged Officers to mentor incoming recruits to maintain discipline, uphold core values, and strengthen operational excellence.

The imminent recruitment drive is expected to significantly improve manpower levels, enabling wider coverage of critical areas, faster response to emerging threats, and enhanced protection of civilians and national infrastructure, according to report.

Lt.-Gen. Shaibu, during visit, also held discussions with NA Officers on operational logistics, welfare initiatives, and ongoing efforts at enhancing the Army’s capacity to respond to threats across, especially in the North-West, and other operational zones in the country.

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