By Ademola Adekusibe
20th December 2025
The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has lauded the Nigerian Army for establishing a training Depot in the state, formally welcoming the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, ahead of the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the first set of recruits trained at the facility. The event aligns with a Presidential directive declaring a state of emergency on national security.
Lieutenant General Shaibu visited Governor Adeleke at the Government House, Osogbo, as part of activities leading up to the historic POP of the pioneer recruits of the Nigerian Army Depot, Osun State, scheduled for Saturday, 20 December 2025. The occasion marks a milestone in the expansion of the Army’s training architecture and manpower development.
The Passing Out Parade forms part of the Federal Government’s accelerated security measures following the state of emergency, aimed at intensifying recruitment, training, and deployment of combat-ready personnel to tackle emerging security threats nationwide.
During the courtesy visit, the COAS commended the Osun State Government for its cooperation, which facilitated the successful establishment of the Depot. He described the facility as a strategic national asset, enhancing the Army’s operational capacity while contributing to youth empowerment and national stability.
Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and excellence, noting that the recruits are fully prepared to support ongoing security operations. He also highlighted the importance of sustained civil–military collaboration in achieving lasting peace and security.
Governor Adeleke, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army for placing confidence in Osun State through the siting of the Depot. He described the passing out of the first recruits as a historic achievement and assured continued support for the Army and other security agencies.
The Passing Out Parade will showcase precision drills, troop inspections, and other ceremonial activities, symbolizing the recruits’ readiness for active service in defense of the nation.
The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity, enhance internal security, and support national development in line with Presidential directives.
