As Nigeria battles terrorism, banditry and other security threats, the Nigerian Army has boosted its fighting force with the graduation of 5,876 newly trained soldiers under a new combat-focused training model.

The recruits passed out at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, in Kaduna State.

The atmosphere at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, was one of pride, discipline and renewed hope as thousands of recruits formally joined the Nigerian Army after six months of intensive military training.

The Passing-Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake underscored the Army's determination to build a force capable of responding effectively to the country's evolving security challenges.

The arrival of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who served as the Reviewing Officer and Special Guest of Honour, signalled the commencement of the ceremony.

The event featured inspection and review of the parade, precision march-pasts by the graduating recruits and the presentation of awards to outstanding trainees who distinguished themselves during the training programme.

Out of the 6,001 recruits who commenced training, 5,876 successfully completed the rigorous programme and earned induction into the Nigerian Army.

Addressing the new soldiers, Lieutenant General Shaibu said they are the first batch to graduate under the Army's enhanced RESTORE HOPE training initiative, developed from lessons learnt in ongoing military operations across the country.

According to him, the revised curriculum places greater emphasis on counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations, weapons handling, intelligence-led missions and the application of modern technology in warfare.

The Army Chief charged the new soldiers to uphold the values of courage, discipline, integrity and selfless service, while remaining professional both on and off the battlefield.

The newly inducted soldiers carry with them not only the responsibility of defending the nation but also the hopes of millions of Nigerians yearning for lasting peace and security.