The Depot Nigerian Army (Depot NA), Zaria, has trained more than 8,000 soldiers in 2025, significantly boosting manpower for formations and units of the Nigerian Army across the country.
The Commandant, Depot NA Zaria, Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu-Bello Mohammed, disclosed this during the 2025 Joint West African Social Activities (WASA) of institutions within Chindit Cantonment, in Zaria Saturday.
According to him, the soldiers trained within the period had been posted to various corps, formations and units, where they are currently contributing to the defence and security of Nigeria.
Mohammed also disclosed that the depot has commenced another round of training on Jan. 13, following the successful screening and validation of 90 Regular Recruits Intake.
He said the training achievements were recorded under the Depot Nigerian Army Training Directive 2025, derived from the Nigerian Army Forecast of Events and the Nigerian Army Training Directive and Policy 2025.
He stated that other institutions within Chindit Cantonment, including the Nigerian Military School (NMS) and the Nigerian Army School of Physical Training (NASPT).
“These institutions also recorded major gains in 2025 by training hundreds of personnel across different courses and terms,” he said.
The commandant expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for providing the enabling environment and resources that ensured the success of the training programmes.
He reaffirmed that in 2026, the institutions would intensify efforts in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of transforming the Nigeria Army into a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.
In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. D.G. Allu, Commandant, Martin Luther Agwai Leadership and Peace Keeping Centre, felicitate with the Chindit Cantonment community at the Year 2025 Joint West African Social Activities.
Allu, who was the Special Guest of Honour, commended Depot Nigerian Army Zaria, the Nigerian Military School and the Nigerian Army School of Physical Training for sustaining the age-long WASA tradition.
He described WASA as a vital platform for informal interaction, strengthened camaraderie and celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, providing personnel a relaxed atmosphere as they prepare for future responsibilities.
According to him, the impressive cultural performances reflected strong attachment to national roots despite military demands, affirming WASA as a unifying forum that promotes harmony, mutual respect, team spirit and tolerance.
The commandant congratulated officers, soldiers and trainees on completing the Year 2025 training, praising their discipline, professionalism and dedication.
