By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged newly trained soldiers of the Nigerian Army to remain decisive in confronting terrorists and other criminal elements while upholding professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
The Army Chief gave the charge on Saturday, June 20, 2026, during the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake held at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State.
In a statement by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the newly trained personnel had a critical role to play in ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s security.
He noted that the soldiers, having undergone rigorous military training, including Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency exercises, were fully prepared to confront emerging security threats across the country.
The COAS urged the new soldiers to remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities, stressing that the Nigerian Army would continue to deny terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups any opportunity to threaten the peace and stability of the nation.
He, however, reminded them that all military operations must be carried out in strict compliance with the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict, adding that professionalism and respect for human rights remain fundamental principles guiding the Nigerian Army.
Lieutenant General Shaibu acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in strengthening the capacity and operational readiness of the military.
He charged the newly inducted soldiers to demonstrate discipline, operational excellence, loyalty to the Constitution and dedication to national service.
The Army Chief also warned the personnel against the misuse of social media, cautioning that unprofessional online activities and unauthorised disclosure of sensitive information could compromise operational security and undermine ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed confidence that the new soldiers would contribute significantly to ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace, stability and security across the country.
