By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged 3,391 newly inducted soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage and patriotism as they formally begin their military careers.
The charge was given on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake, held at Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, in what marked a historic milestone as the first set of soldiers to graduate from the depot since its establishment.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Chief of Army Staff described the ceremony as a landmark event, noting that the parade represented the maiden Passing Out Parade of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo. He reminded the recruits that, as the pioneer set, they carried a special responsibility to uphold the reputation and standards of the institution.
“This ceremony is historic as the first Passing Out Parade of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo. You are the pioneer set and you must wear this badge with pride. Conduct yourselves as worthy ambassadors of this institution throughout your careers,” Lieutenant General Shaibu charged.
The Army Chief emphasized that the recruits were joining the Nigerian Army at a critical period in the nation’s history, characterised by evolving and complex security challenges. He urged them to rely on the discipline and resilience instilled during their rigorous training, encouraging them to confront future challenges with confidence, determination and hope for success rather than fear of failure.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further reminded the new soldiers that their induction into the Nigerian Army came with immense responsibility, particularly in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and contributing to national security. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to their welfare and professional growth under his Soldier First Command Mantra, assuring them of sustained moral, physical and material support.
“Our soldiers remain the core and enduring strength of the Nigerian Army. You will be given all you require to succeed, but the nation will also demand much from you. Uphold the core values of the Army and develop the determination to excel in your lives and careers,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff also commended the Commandant, officers, instructors and staff of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, for their dedication and professionalism in moulding the recruits into disciplined and combat-ready soldiers. He announced that the newly approved Depot Nigerian Army, Abakaliki, would soon commence training activities, a development aimed at enhancing manpower development and improving operational readiness in line with the directive of the President.
In his remarks at the ceremony, the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, praised the Nigerian Army for its sustained commitment to national security and its ongoing operations to curb banditry and kidnapping along state borders. He urged the newly inducted soldiers to remain loyal to the Army’s core values and to serve the nation as steadfast custodians of peace and stability.
The colourful parade culminated in the formal induction of the 3,391 recruits into the Nigerian Army, officially marking the commencement of their service to the nation as professional soldiers.
