The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen Faruk Yahaya, has tasked 6,226 recruits to be professional in the discharge of their assigned duties.

The COAS said this during the passing-out-parade of the 83 Regular Recruit Intake on Saturday in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Mr Yahaya, who was the Reviewing Officer, said that they should be ready for operational duties in the defence of the country.

He said that the Army would continue to decimate all criminals in the country, adding, “It is a clear message to all criminals, whether they are bandits, kidnappers or terrorists.”

He urged the new soldiers to maintain a high standard of professionalism and remain good ambassadors of Depot Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“As for the passing out recruits, you are all aware, Nigeria is currently facing numerous security challenges such as the activities of Boko Haram Terrorists, armed bandits, kidnappers, secessionists and other criminal elements.

“I wish to state that these security challenges can only be surmounted by the collective resolve and effort of every officer and soldier of the Nigerian Army, including those of you passing out today,” he said.

Mr Yahaya, therefore, enjoined the new soldiers to apply the mental, physical and moral training acquired over the past few months.

He added that they were to uphold the core values of loyalty, selfless service, courage, discipline, integrity and respect for others, which are sacred to all personnel.

“These values along with other cherished ethos of the Nigerian Army, if well imbibed and upheld, will help you attain great heights in your chosen career,” Mr Yahaya said.

The army chief also advised the soldiers to adhere to their sworn Oath of Attestation.

He said: “By this oath you are under obligation to remain loyal to constituted authorities at all times and place the interest of the nation ahead of your personal convictions”.

He noted that Depot Nigerian Army, since its establishment in 1924, had borne the responsibility of moulding selected able-bodied citizens into well trained and disciplined soldiers to meet the manpower demands of the Nigerian Army.

He added the function of moulding well trained and disciplined soldiers was of utmost importance, considering the numerous security challenges bedevilling the nation.

Mr Yahaya expressed satisfaction that Depot Nigerian Army has continued to conduct its training activities in compliance with the Army Headquarters Training Directives.

He said the training was also to have a “professional Nigerian Army ready to accomplish assigned missions within a joint environment in defence of Nigeria”.

The COAS also inaugurated and inspected numerous projects at the Army Depot.

(NAN)