The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the initiative on Friday, June 26, 2026, during a press conference to herald the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
The Nigerian Army has concluded plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 personnel as part of a major expansion of its manpower aimed at strengthening operational capacity and intensifying the fight against insecurity across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the initiative on Friday, June 26, 2026, during a press conference to herald the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
According to him, the Service was simultaneously expanding its force structure, improving deployment strategies and leveraging modern technology to confront Nigeria's evolving security threats.
The Army Chief, who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the military remained resolute in denying criminal and subversive elements the freedom to operate while ensuring that all operations are conducted in strict compliance with the rules of engagement, international humanitarian law and the constitutional provisions on human rights.
