The Nigerian Army has updated its recruit training programme to better prepare newly enlisted soldiers for the challenges of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other emerging security threats across the country.
The development was announced during the Beating of Retreat and Award Ceremony held for the 90 Regular Recruits Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria.
Speaking at the event, the Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, said the curriculum review was introduced to align military training with the country’s changing security landscape and operational demands.
According to him, the revised training programme places greater focus on counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations, ensuring that recruits acquire the skills, discipline, and knowledge required for modern military engagements.
Olatoye explained that the updated curriculum is designed to equip soldiers with the capabilities needed to support ongoing operations against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups threatening national security.
He expressed confidence that the newly trained recruits would make meaningful contributions to military operations upon deployment, having undergone specialised training tailored to current security realities and battlefield requirements.
The senior officer reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving training standards and operational readiness through continuous updates to its training doctrine and instructional methods.
He also commended the Commandant of Depot Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu-Bello Mohammed, alongside instructors and support personnel, for successfully implementing the revised programme and maintaining high training standards.
Olatoye noted that the drills and demonstrations displayed during the ceremony reflected the effectiveness of the new training approach and the preparedness of the recruits for future assignments.
Earlier, Mohammed stated that the event marked the successful completion of training for the 90 Regular Recruits Intake and provided an opportunity to honour outstanding recruits and training companies that excelled in military exercises, sports, and other competitions.
He explained that the awards were intended to recognise dedication, discipline, and excellence among recruits while encouraging high performance across training units.
According to him, the training programme began on January 21 and will officially conclude with a Passing-Out Parade scheduled for June 20.
Mohammed disclosed that 6,001 recruits initially commenced the programme, while 5,876 successfully completed the required training and qualified to participate in the graduation ceremony.
He added that the large-scale exercise placed significant demands on the institution’s personnel and resources, highlighting the extensive effort involved in preparing recruits for military service.
The commandant also praised instructors, support staff, and other stakeholders for their commitment and contributions to the successful execution of the training programme.
