Military expands capacity, unveils reforms and nationwide programmes as 2026 Army Day Celebration begins in Ebonyi State…..
The Nigerian Army says it is preparing to recruit 28,000 additional personnel as part of a broad manpower expansion aimed at strengthening its response to rising security challenges across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, disclosed this on Friday during a media briefing marking the commencement of activities for the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
He said the recruitment push is supported by the establishment of a new training depot in Amasiri-Edda, located within Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State, designed to improve training capacity and accelerate troop development.
According to him, “The Army is expanding recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges nationwide.”
Represented at the briefing by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Bamidele Alabi, the Army Chief said this year’s celebration highlights the evolving role of the military in national security, civil support operations, and development efforts.
He explained that the Nigerian Army has continued to undergo structural reforms, including the creation of additional brigades and units, acquisition of modern combat equipment, infrastructure upgrades across formations, and enhanced troop welfare under its “Soldier First” policy.
This year’s theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” he said, reflects the institution’s focus on civil-military cooperation, technological advancement, and stronger regional defence collaboration.
The Army also noted that it remains actively engaged in operations against Boko Haram insurgents, armed bandit groups, kidnappers, separatist movements, and other non-state actors threatening national stability.
Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s administration to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity while supporting civil authorities in maintaining law and order.
He traced the origins of the Nigerian Army to 1863, when the Glover Hausas were formed, describing its evolution into a modern force as part of Nigeria’s broader security history.
Activities for the 2026 Army Day Celebration began on Friday with Juma’at prayers across military formations nationwide. The programme will continue with a series of public engagements, including school outreach sessions, lectures, media interactions, medical missions, and community development projects.
Key events include a lecture and award ceremony, outreach programmes by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association in Port Harcourt, and free medical services for residents in selected communities.
The celebration will climax on July 6 with a grand military parade, equipment display, research and development exhibition, and commendation awards for outstanding personnel.
A major feature of this year’s event will be the African Land Forces Forum 2026, themed “Securing Africa: Advanced Defence, United Efforts,” bringing together military leaders, policymakers, and defence experts from across the continent to discuss security cooperation and technological innovation.
An accompanying defence exhibition will showcase advanced military equipment and platforms for potential acquisition by participating countries.
The Army expressed optimism that the programme will deepen regional collaboration, strengthen innovation in defence operations, and enhance Nigeria’s contribution to continental security efforts, while urging the media to support national unity through responsible reporting.
