The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit 28,000 new soldiers in a major effort to strengthen its operational capacity and intensify the fight against insecurity across the country.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, disclosed the development on Thursday during a visit to forward operational bases. He said the recruitment exercise forms part of ongoing measures to address manpower shortages and improve the military’s ability to respond effectively to security threats.
According to him, the army remains committed to tackling insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities that continue to threaten lives and property in different parts of the country. He explained that the additional personnel would support ongoing operations while improving the military’s presence in vulnerable areas.
Shaibu noted that the army has already enhanced its training programmes to ensure that incoming recruits are equipped with the skills required for modern warfare, intelligence gathering and internal security operations. He assured Nigerians that professionalism, transparency and merit would guide the recruitment process.
The planned enlistment comes amid growing public concern over persistent attacks by armed groups, particularly in parts of the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions. Security experts have repeatedly highlighted the need for increased manpower and improved logistics to strengthen military operations nationwide.
Analysts say the recruitment drive could help reduce operational pressure on existing personnel while expanding the army’s ability to conduct simultaneous operations across multiple theatres. However, they also stress that recruitment must be complemented by better equipment, intelligence capabilities and welfare packages for security personnel.
The federal government has consistently maintained that strengthening security remains one of its top priorities, with increased investment in defence and law enforcement institutions. The army leadership believes the new recruitment exercise will contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.
Applications for the recruitment exercise are expected to open soon, with authorities promising a transparent process accessible to qualified Nigerians across the country.
