COAS announces recruitment of 24,000 soldiers to boost operational strength

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, has announced plans to recruit and train 24,000 soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen the operational capability of the Nigerian Army across the nation.

Lt Gen. Shaibu made the announcement on Wednesday during his operational visit to the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, where he addressed officers, from second lieutenants to captains and lutenant Colonels, Colonels and Brig. Generals.

The recruitment drive forms part of the Army’s strategy to address evolving security challenges and enhance the readiness of troops deployed across the country.

“The area of responsibility is vast and security challenges are dynamic. To meet these threats effectively, we need boots on the ground. In six months, we aim to train 12,000 soldiers from three new training facilities. If we operate two streams, we can produce up to 24,000 soldiers ready for deployment,” he said.

Lt Gen. Shaibu explained that the new training facilities, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are strategically located to produce soldiers who are highly trained in modern warfare, tactical operations, and weapon handling. The aim is to ensure that recruits are operationally ready to face security threats immediately upon completion of their training.

The COAS highlighted that the initiative is not just about increasing numbers but also about quality and operational effectiveness. He emphasized that the new soldiers would be trained in basic tactics, combat skills, and leadership principles to maintain the Army’s professional standards.

“This is a desperate time for our nation. The soldiers we train must be ready to tackle the multifaceted security challenges we face. We are committed to ensuring they are properly equipped, trained, and led,” he said.

The COAS also reiterated the Army’s commitment to the “Soldier First” concept, promising expanded welfare and support programs for both newly recruited and existing personnel.

He urged officers to provide mentorship and guidance to the new recruits, ensuring continuity of discipline, core values, and operational excellence.

The recruitment drive is expected to significantly enhance the manpower of the Nigerian Army, enabling more effective coverage of critical areas of operation, rapid response to threats, and improved protection of civilians and national infrastructure.

The COAS’s visit to 1 Division also included engagements with officers on operational logistics, welfare schemes, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the Army’s capacity to respond to security challenges across the North West and other theatres of operations.

COAS announces recruitment of 24,000 soldiers to boost operational strength

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

Algeria’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Hocine Mezoued has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to sustainable development and stronger ties with Nigeria.

He gave the commitment in Abuja at the commemoration of the 71st anniversary of the outbreak of the National Liberation Struggle and Algeria’s National Day celebration.

The event drew senior representatives of the Nigerian government, members of the diplomatic corps, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

In his address, Ambassador Mezoued paid homage to the more than five million Algerian martyrs who lost their lives during the 132-year anti-colonial struggle, noting that the November Revolution remains “an inexhaustible source of pride and patriotism” for the Algerian people.

He emphasized that Algeria’s victory in securing independence in 1962 laid the groundwork for a nation strongly focused on development. He said: “Since its independence, Algeria has implemented national strategies and major development projects that have yielded remarkable achievements in human, economic, social, and environmental spheres.”

The envoy while underlining the country’s economic strength, noted that Algeria is currently the third-largest economy in Africa, with a GDP estimated at around US$300 billion, and projections to reach US$400 billion by 2027, backed by positive macroeconomic indicators.

He stated that despite its economic ambitions, Algeria has maintained its social welfare commitments, claiming that citizens continue to enjoy free access to education and healthcare, along with government-supported efforts to ensure decent housing for all.

Mezoued’s message highlighted both the historical significance of Algeria’s struggle for independence and the nation’s forward-looking drive toward modernization and prosperity.

On his part, the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas expressed the country’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and parliamentary cooperation with Algeria as both nations continue to strengthen their longstanding ties.

The Speaker, who was represented by the Chairman of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group Committee, Hon. Abubakar Babazango, in goodwill message described the anniversary as a moment of deep significance for Algeria and the entire African continent. He paid tribute to the courage and resilience of the Algerian people, whose struggle for liberation, launched 71 years ago, remains “an enduring symbol of hope” for oppressed peoples worldwide.

He said: “This day reminds us of the unity and sacrifice of the Algerian people who rose with determination to reclaim their freedom and dignity.”

He highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Algeria, noting that both countries share a history of solidarity and a common vision for peace, development, and prosperity in Africa. He emphasized the role of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group in fostering collaboration across key sectors, including trade, education, energy, and cultural exchange.

He said: “As we mark this historic occasion, may the friendship between Nigeria and Algeria continue to grow in unity and progress.”

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

Vigilante in Yobe gunned down Fulani herder over alleged destruction of farmland

By: Zagazola Makama

A Fulani herder has been shot dead and a vigilante injured following a confrontation between herders and security operatives in Jakusko Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that at about 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, a group of Fulani herdsmen were allegedly destroying farmlands in Lafiya, Saban, Garin, Sara, Jaba and Muguram villages.

According to him, a joint patrol team comprising the police, Joint Task Force (JTF) and vigilantes was immediately deployed to the affected areas.

“Upon arrival at the scene, one of the herders attacked a vigilante, Saidu Yau of Lafiya village, with a machete, inflicting a deep cut on his left thigh.

“The same herder also attempted to attack a soldier, Private Adamu Ismail, attached to the JTF. The soldier, in self-defence, fired at the attacker, leading to his death,” said the sources.

The sources said that both the injured vigilante and the herder were rushed to the General Hospital, Jakusko, for medical attention.

“The herder was confirmed dead by a medical doctor, while the injured vigilante is responding to treatment,” the sources added.

Police sources said the remains of the deceased herder had been released to the Sarkin Fulani, Hon. Hassan Lamido Manu, pending the arrival of the family.

He said investigation into the incident was ongoing to ascertain the circumstances and prevent further clashes.

Vigilante in Yobe gunned down Fulani herder over alleged destruction of farmland