Nigerian Army to recruit 24,000 soldiers as insecurity mounts

The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit and train 24,000 new soldiers to boost its operational capability due to the worsening security crisis perpetuated by non-state actors.
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Speaking at the 1 Division headquarters in Kaduna, Lt. Gen. Shaibu explained that three new training facilities, recently approved by President Bola Tinubu, will process 12,000 recruits within six months. By running two simultaneous training streams, the Army aims to reach the 24,000 target.
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‎The new recruits will undergo rigorous preparation focused on modern warfare skills, tactical knowledge, and advanced weapon handling to ensure they are battle-ready upon deployment to conflict zones.
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‎This announcement follows a deadly week in Nigeria, marked by the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from a secondary school in Maga, Kebbi State, and the killing of a school Vice Principal and also the attack and abduction of over 30 Christian worshippers at the Christ Apostolic Church, in Kwara State.
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‎Additionally, the Senate recently debated on the defense deficits of the country, where some lawmakers argued that the current force strength is insufficient to cover Nigeria’s vast landmass and porous borders.
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‎Lt. Gen. Shaibu views this recruitment as a necessary step to regain control of ungoverned spaces. He stressed that the recruits will be trained with improved welfare, mentorship from senior officers, and better equipment to boost morale and operational efficiency.
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‎While the recruitment is welcomed, critics and lawmakers argue it may still be insufficient. During recent debates, Senators stated that the Nigerian military is vastly outnumbered by the security challenges it faces, with some calling for a much larger expansion (100,000 troops) to effectively police the agrarian communities and highways currently under siege by bandits.
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