In a grand and symbolic Regimental Passing Out Parade (POP) on Saturday, October 21, 2023, the Nigerian Army marked the culmination of the training journey for over 6,000 recruits from the 85 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI).
The impressive event took place at the Parade Ground of the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The 6,315 passing out recruits embarked on their journey towards becoming soldiers on June 3, 2023, after a rigorous selection process. The POP served as a testament to their successful completion of the training, which was described as qualitative, realistic, and tailored to meet the contemporary security needs of Nigeria.
Addressing the graduating recruits, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, congratulated them on their achievement. He emphasized that, in line with his command philosophy, his top priorities include transforming the Nigerian Army into a well-trained and motivated force to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.
Gen. Lagbaja reaffirmed the army’s commitment to prioritizing training and welfare for its troops. Efforts are underway to renovate and provide additional accommodation facilities, particularly for those not in frontline duties. The COAS also mentioned improvements in medical facilities to ensure better care for battle casualties.
He reminded the young soldiers that soldiering entails a life of sacrifice to the country, an unwavering allegiance to defend, and, if necessary, a willingness to pay the ultimate price. As they graduated, he declared that they had accepted the highest call to duty any Nigerian could answer.
During the awards presentation that followed, the Indian Training Company was named the Champion Company and received the Depot Nigerian Army Champion Banner. Recruit Abdullahi Abubakar was honored with the Chief of Army Staff Award for outstanding performance among his peers. Recruit Ugwu Clifford received the Commandant Depot Nigerian Army Award, while Recruit Ideba Love was presented with the Chief of Administration (Army) Award. The Chief of Training (Army) Award was bestowed upon Recruit Edet Samuel.
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Distinguished guests at the Passing out Parade included the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Army, Senator Abdulazziz Yar’adua, former Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Alwali Kazir, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Maj. Gen. John Ochai, a representative of the Emir of Zazzau, Principal Staff Officers from the Army Headquarters, and the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, among others.
Additionally, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali at his palace in Zaria. He extended his condolences on the recent passing of Nigeria’s Ambassador to Morocco, Alhaji Mansur Nuhu Bamali. The COAS solicited the support of royal fathers of the traditional institution for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in promoting enduring peace and harmony in their domains. The Emir pledged his support and that of his Emirate to the Nigerian Army.
This Passing out Parade marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian Army as it continues to build a motivated and well-trained force to meet the nation’s security needs.
