Lagbaja stated this at the Passing Out Parade of the soldiers on Saturday.
A statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu quoted Lagbaja as saying, “The young recruits of Depot Nigerian Army, we are here to pass out today, will form part of Nigerian Army’s solution to the challenge of insurgency in the North East, banditry and cattle rustling in the North West, farmers-herders clashes in the North Central, secessionists agitations and cultism in the South East, militancy and vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure in the South-South and South West.”
The COAS noted that the young soldiers would be exposed to advanced military training to sharpen their newly acquired skills.
He added that the Army has put in place a series of post-depot courses and training to help the soldiers master the array of weapons and equipment in its inventory as well as other special soldiering skills to become more proficient in the art of war.
The COAS assured that the Army is equally improving existing welfare packages to cater for their quartering, medical, recreational, and educational needs, as well as ensure their career fulfilment.
The Army Chief said their statutory responsibility is to defend and if need be, pay the supreme price for the nation.
Lagbaja urged the newly recruited soldiers to be disciplined, loyal and committed to their duties.
“He charged them to be ready to go wherever and whenever they are ordered to, by land, sea, or air in defence of the nation, stressing, that the noble profession of arms is a commitment to relegate personal comfort and assume duty to the country as the primary concern.
“By becoming a soldier, you have accepted the highest call to duty and to abide by the requirements of exceptional discipline, loyalty, integrity, and dedication to duty, all of which are values that have guided your training, “the statement added.
The COAS also inaugurated 40 remodelled and renovated flats for the accommodation of Corporal below in Chindit Barracks.
