Embrace discipline, professionalism, army tells young soldiers

The Nigerian Army has charged young soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) to uphold discipline, professionalism and commitment to continuous training as they proceed to their respective units and formations.

In a post on its X handle on Saturday, the Chief of Training, Nigerian Army (COT(A)), Major General Valentine Okoro, gave the charge on Friday, at the graduation ceremony of Exercise Shining Star Course 12/2026 held at the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja.

Represented by the Deputy Chief of Training, Linkages and Integration, Brigadier General Ukeagbu Igbokwe, Okoro described Exercise Shining Star as timely and relevant to the Army’s efforts to develop disciplined, competent and combat-ready soldiers capable of operating effectively in contemporary security environments.

He said the exercise enabled the young soldiers to consolidate the knowledge and skills acquired during recruit training and apply them under realistic field conditions.

According to him, the exercise also exposed the participants to teamwork, leadership, endurance, initiative and sound decision-making.

“Remain physically fit, mentally alert, professionally competent and loyal to constituted authority,” Okoro charged the soldiers, stressing the need for them to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army.

He also reminded the soldiers that their conduct, both on and off duty, must reflect positively on the Service and contribute to sustaining the confidence Nigerians repose in the Nigerian Army.

In his remarks, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff Training, AHQ Garrison Training School, Lieutenant Colonel Umar Adamu, disclosed that 45 young soldiers of 90 RRI drawn from various departments, establishments and commands within Abuja participated in the course.

He stated that the participants were trained in areas including unit regimentation, basic infantry tactics, physical fitness, weapon handling, map reading, night operations and other essential military skills, adding that their progress was assessed through weekly examinations, practical exercises and other activities.