Nigeria to recruit 28,000 new troops: presidency

FILE: A general view of a building at the Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force in Maiduguri on March 18, 2026. /CFP FILE: A general view of a building at the Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force in Maiduguri on March 18, 2026. /CFP Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 28,000 military personnel to strengthen national security as the country grapples with multiple security threats.In a statement on Thursday, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga described the move as a "landmark" step to enhance the country's security architecture.The measures also include procuring military equipment and improving troop welfare.Local media previously reported that the minimum monthly wage for the lowest-ranking soldiers had doubled to 100,000 naira (about $72).Nigeria continues to battle a long-running insurgency in its northern regions, alongside growing attacks by Sahel-based militants and armed criminal gangs known locally as bandits.Tinubu, who is seeking re-election in January, declared a nationwide security emergency last November following a surge in kidnappings and violence. Source(s): AFP