The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Sunday in Zaria enjoined the 79 Regular Recruit Intake (79 RRI) to prioritise vital training, to facilitate professional competence and steady career progression.
Buratai said this at the 79 Regular Recruit Intake beating of retreat and prize giving day at Depot Nigerian Army Zaria.
The chief of army staff was represented on the occasion by the Commander, Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Steveson Olabanji.
Buratai said the Depot Nigerian Army had introduced the recruits into initial military training, which was the foundation needed to build their career.
He noted that training in the Nigerian Army was a continuous process that would last throughout their career in the military.
“I, therefore, urge you all to attend prerequisite courses after passing out, in order to attain the highest standard of professional competence for steady career progression,’’ he said.
Buratai stated that the event, which signified the end of the training activities, was very important in the training cycle of every intake that passed through the institution.
“From what we have witnessed today, it is clear that training companies competed keenly in various events that were aimed at enhancing their training in Depot Nigerian Army.
“This is evident by the number of trophies that were won by respective companies and certificates, that would be presented to some award winners,’’ the chief of army staff said.
He congratulated those who won trophies and laurels and enjoined those that did not win to note that they have several opportunities to excel during their careers in the military.
Buratai urged the recruits to take the opportunities to be the best they could be.
Earlier, the Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Sani Muhammed, said the beating of retreat and prize giving day was to bring to an end, the various cycles of the regular recruit intake training activities.
According to Muhammed, the event is to serve as a day that awards and prizes are given to recruits and training companies, that have distinguished themselves both individually and collectively during such training activities.
The commandant noted that the 79 regular recruit intakes were the best trained in the depot in recent times.
“This can be attested by their excellent performances in the various field training exercises, competitive events and other aspects of training,’’ the commandant said.
He stated that the attainment of such standards by the recruits was largely due to the commitment, diligence and dedication of all those involved in the training of the recruits. (NAN)
