The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Abubakar S.M. Wase, has called on members of the 8...
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Abubakar S.M. Wase, has called on members of the 89th Regular Recruits Intake (RRI) to pursue further courses and continuous training after their passing-out ceremony to attain the highest standards of professionalism and career growth in the Nigerian Army.
He made the call while serving as the Special Guest of Honour at the Beating of the Retreat ceremony held in honour of the 89th RRI at the Depot Nigerian Army Parade Ground in Zaria.
Major General Wase noted that training in the Nigerian Army is a continuous process that extends throughout a soldier’s career, stressing the importance of lifelong learning and discipline in the service.
“Today’s event officially signifies the end of the training activities outlined for your intake, except the passing-out parade which comes up on December 13, 2025. Depot Nigerian Army has introduced you to the initial phase of military training, which is the foundation upon which your career will be built,” he said.
The GOC commended the recruits for their enthusiasm and performance during the various competitive training exercises, saying the number of trophies displayed reflected their dedication and excellence. He congratulated the winners and encouraged others to remain focused, assuring them that there will be more opportunities to excel as they advance in their careers.
“Beating of the Retreat is a significant event in the training cycle of every intake. It provides an opportunity for stocktaking and rewards for excellence among recruits, training companies, and staff who have distinguished themselves,” he added.
General Wase also commended the Commandant of Depot Nigerian Army, Major General Ahmadu Bello Muhammad, and his team for their tireless commitment to the training and transformation of the recruits, which culminated in the successful event.
In his welcome address, Major General Ahmadu Bello
Muhammad revealed that 3,500 recruits commenced training at the Depot, out of which 3,439 are set to pass out in two days’ time. He said the exercise had tested the institution’s human and material capacity but was successfully executed through the unwavering support of the Chief of Army Staff.
He extended appreciation to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Warrant Officers Academy (WOA), Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), 1 Division, and the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI) for their collaboration in organizing joint field exercises, which added realism and practical exposure to the recruits’ training.
The Commandant further praised his officers, instructors, and staff for their dedication and resilience in ensuring the successful completion of the training cycle.
“To all my instructors and staff, I say a big well done for turning what was undeniably a daunting task into an achievable success,” he said.
The event featured military parades, musical displays, and presentations of awards to outstanding recruits and training companies.
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