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Army to deploy 6,000 new recruits to fight banditry

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The 5,937 soldiers that recently passed out from the Depot will be drafted to fight banditry, cattle rustling and related crimes, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army of Staff (COAS), has said.

Speaking at the passing out parade for the 86th regular recruit intake at the Depot Nigeria Army in Zaria on Saturday, Lagbaja, who served as the Special Guest of Honor and Reviewing Officer, stressed the important role these recruits will play in tackling the country’s security challenges.

“The fresh products passing out today will form part of the solution to the challenge of insurgency in the north-east, banditry and cattle rustling in the north-west.

“They will fight the farmers/herders clashes in the north-central, secessionist agitation and cultism in the south-east, militancy and vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure in the south-south and south-west”, Lagbaja stated.

He noted that the Nigerian Army is committed to continuous training, with post-depot programs designed to enhance the soldiers’ proficiency with various weapons and equipment, thus improving their effectiveness in combat situations.

Lagbaja also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of soldiers, ensuring they have access to medical, recreational, and educational resources to support their career development.

While congratulating the 5,937 recruits, Lagbaja reminded them of the sacrifices inherent in military service, emphasizing the duty to prioritize the nation’s needs above personal comfort and to uphold values of discipline, loyalty, integrity, and dedication.

“By joining the Army, you have embraced the highest call to duty, pledging to defend the country and, if necessary, lay down your lives for the people,” he said, urging the recruits to meet the expectations of the Nigerian Army and the nation.

He also hailed the commandant and instructors at the Depot for their successful training and assured them of the Army headquarters’ support in achieving the institution’s training goals.