Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has congratulated the pioneer set of 90 regular recruits who successfully completed training at the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot, Amasiri-Edda, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army and strengthening national security.
Speaking on Wednesday at the passing-out parade held at the depot in Amasiri-Edda, Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas, the Governor described the graduation as a historic milestone for the Nigerian Army, Ebonyi State and Nigeria, noting that the establishment of the training depot has enhanced national security and created new opportunities for socio-economic development in the state.
Governor Nwifuru also appealed to the Nigerian Army to release a portion of its 989.7 hectares of land in Abakaliki to facilitate the even, effective and radial development of the Ebonyi State capital.
He said the state government had embraced the establishment of the Army training depot from its inception because of its strategic importance to national security and the immense benefits it would bring to the people of Ebonyi.
“When the idea of establishing this depot on Ebonyi soil was conceived, we wholeheartedly embraced it because we recognised its strategic importance to our nation and its immense benefits to our people. Through the special grace of God, what began as a bold vision has today become a living reality,” the Governor said.
He expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot in Ebonyi State and providing the necessary support for its successful take-off.
According to him, the President’s approval reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, promoting national unity and ensuring equitable development across the country.
The Governor also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for their confidence in Ebonyi State, describing the establishment of the depot as a strong vote of confidence in the state and its people.
Governor Nwifuru assured the military of his administration’s continued partnership, promising to maintain a peaceful and conducive environment for military training and operations while promoting harmonious coexistence between the Army and host communities.
As part of the state’s support, he announced that the Ebonyi State Government would undertake the construction of key facilities at the training depot, including an emergency ward, main hospital and administrative block, maternity ward, morgue, recruit wards, walkways, generator house, two solar-powered boreholes with 50,000-litre capacity each, and a theatre.
The Governor also appealed to the Nigerian Army to facilitate the completion and equipping of the proposed Military Referral Hospital in Ebonyi State to serve the state and the entire South-East region.
Congratulating the graduating recruits, Governor Nwifuru urged them to remain disciplined, patriotic and professional throughout their military careers.
“As you proceed to different formations across the country, always remember the oath you have taken to defend Nigeria, her Constitution and her people. Serve with honour, courage and loyalty, placing national interest above personal considerations,” he charged.
He further assured the recruits that Ebonyi State would always remain proud of their achievements and continue to honour their sacrifices in service to the nation.
The Governor thanked traditional rulers, community leaders and residents of the host communities for their support and peaceful relationship with the Nigerian Army, urging them to sustain the cordial partnership for the benefit of both the military and the people.
The passing-out parade marked the graduation of the first batch of 90 regular recruits trained at the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot, Amasiri-Edda, a facility established to strengthen military manpower and enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
