Nigerian Army Targets 28,000 New Troops Amid Insecurity Fight

The Nigerian Army has revealed intentions to bring in an additional 28,000 soldiers. This significant recruitment drive is part of a broader strategy to bolster its personnel strength and intensify ongoing operations aimed at tackling insecurity across the nation.

Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, made this announcement on Friday during a press briefing held in Abuja. The event served as a prelude to the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration. Represented by Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Shaibu explained that this expansion in recruitment follows the recent establishment of a new training depot situated in Amasiri Edda. This new facility marks the third institution specifically dedicated to training recruits for the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu emphasized the crucial role of human resources, stating, “Manpower is as important as the equipment required to fight insecurity.” He further elaborated, “To this end, we have expanded our recruitment scope by establishing another training depot at Amasiri Edda, making it the third institution to train able-bodied civilians for the Nigerian Army, thereby enhancing our manpower. With this action, the Nigerian Army is expected to recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops to help stem the tide of insecurity across the country.”

In addition to the manpower boost, the Army Chief disclosed that the service has also created more brigades and units. This, he noted, is coupled with a continuous review of its force structure to address any existing deployment deficiencies and to enable a more effective response to emerging security threats. “Accordingly, the Nigerian Army has established additional brigades and units to boost our operations while continuously reviewing our force structure to bridge observed gaps in deployments and address emerging security challenges across the country,” Shaibu confirmed.

He further highlighted the Army’s commitment to strengthening its operational capabilities through the acquisition of contemporary platforms, various combat enablers, and the forging of strategic partnerships. Measures have also been institutionalized to recognize and reward acts of gallantry, enhance the welfare of personnel, and undertake extensive infrastructure upgrades across all formations nationwide.

Reflecting on his administration's achievements since assuming office seven months prior, the COAS underscored the significant strides made in operational effectiveness, infrastructure development, personnel expansion, professionalism, and civil-military relations. He articulated his command philosophy as centered on transforming the Nigerian Army into “a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.” This vision, he added, is underpinned by a “Soldier-First” culture, which prioritizes the well-being of military personnel and their families as a vital catalyst for operational success.

“We are also improving our deployment strategies and employing modern technology as a force multiplier in our efforts to quickly degrade all forms of criminality across the country,” Shaibu stated. He reiterated that troops remain actively engaged in operations across the country, affirming that their efforts have considerably weakened Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, separatist groups, and other criminal elements posing threats to national security.

Shaibu assured Nigerians of the Army’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties in strict adherence to the rules of engagement and with profound respect for human rights. He also announced the commencement of activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, with this year’s theme being “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.” The Army Chief concluded by appealing to Nigerians for their continued support to the military and other security agencies in the collective fight against insecurity.