The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit an additional 28,000 soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen its manpower and improve its capacity to tackle the country’s growing security challenges.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, disclosed the development on Friday during a media briefing to launch the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL). He was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Bamidele Alabi.
According to the Army, the expansion follows the establishment of a new military training depot in Amasiri-Edda, covering Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State, which is expected to boost the Army’s recruitment and training capacity.
Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that increasing the Army’s manpower forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving operational effectiveness in response to security threats across Nigeria.
He stated, “The Army is expanding recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges nationwide.”
The Army also highlighted several reforms already underway, including the creation of additional brigades and military units, the acquisition of modern combat equipment, stronger strategic partnerships, improved infrastructure nationwide, and enhanced welfare initiatives for personnel under its “Soldier First” policy.
This year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration is themed, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.” According to the Army, the theme reflects its commitment to national security, civil-military cooperation, technological advancement, and regional defence collaboration.
Major General Alabi said the week-long celebration would provide an opportunity for the Army to evaluate its operational achievements while showcasing its role in promoting national unity, integration, and development.
He noted that the Nigerian Army continues to modernise its operations while confronting threats posed by Boko Haram insurgents, kidnappers, bandits, separatist groups, and other non-state actors threatening the country’s stability.
The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting civil authorities in maintaining law and order under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Highlighting the institution’s history, the Army recalled that its origins date back to 1863 with the establishment of the indigenous Glover Hausas force, which later evolved into today’s Nigerian Army.
Activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration commenced on Friday, June 26, with Juma’at prayers across military formations nationwide.
Public speaking engagements in secondary schools are scheduled for Friday, July 3, while Saturday, July 4, will feature the Nigerian Army Day Lecture, the Chief of Army Staff Award Ceremony, media interaction, and a charity outreach programme organised by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) in Port Harcourt.
On Sunday, July 5, the Army will conduct free medical outreach programmes and commission Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects in selected communities around Port Harcourt.
The celebration will conclude on Monday, July 6, with a grand military parade, equipment exhibition, research and development showcase, and the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Awards.
One of the major highlights of this year’s celebration will be the African Land Forces Forum 2026, themed “Securing Africa: Advanced Defence, United Efforts.”
The forum, organised by Great Minds Event Limited, will bring together African army chiefs, senior military officers, policymakers, defence industry representatives, and security experts to strengthen regional cooperation and discuss emerging defence technologies.
An accompanying international defence exhibition will also showcase advanced military equipment and combat platforms for potential procurement by participating countries.
The Nigerian Army expressed optimism that the events would promote innovation, deepen regional and international defence partnerships, and strengthen strategic collaboration on security issues across Africa.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, the Army urged media organisations to report responsibly, encourage national unity, and support ongoing security operations.
In its closing message, the Army appealed to Nigerians, saying, “The Nigerian Army belongs to you. It is your Army. Let us all demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the ideals of peace and unity for national development.”
