COAS tasks new soldiers on decisive action against terrorists, criminals

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the newly trained soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake to be decisive in confronting terrorists and criminal elements while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and respect for human rights.

Colonel Appolonia Anele, acting Director of Army Public Relations, in a statement said the directive was given on Saturday, June 20, 2026, during the Passing Out Parade at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State.

“The Army Chief underscored the critical role the new soldiers will play in ongoing operations to safeguard national security,” the statement said.

He stated that following rigorous military training, including counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, the troops are fully prepared to take the fight to all threats confronting the nation.

Lt Gen. Shaibu emphasised that while the Nigerian Army remains resolute in denying criminal elements any safe haven, all operations must be conducted in strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict.

The COAS highlighted the continued support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in strengthening the capacity of the Armed Forces.

“Nigerians expect the new soldiers to demonstrate discipline, operational excellence and unwavering loyalty to the Constitution,” the statement quoted him as saying. 

He also cautioned against the misuse of social media, warning that unprofessional conduct online and unauthorised disclosure of information could compromise operational security and undermine national efforts to defeat insecurity.

Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, the COAS assured that the newly inducted soldiers will play a vital role in sustaining ongoing offensives aimed at restoring peace, stability and security across the country.