By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Depot Nigerian Army (NA), Zaria, has denied reports claiming a recruit, Ibrahim Nazifi, died during military training at the facility.
The Depot, in a statement released on Saturday, described the reports as “false” and inconsistent with its official records.
According to the Depot’s records, Ibrahim Nazifi, an indigene of Gombe State with application number 90RRI-GO-9017726, successfully passed the state recruitment screening in December 2025 and was shortlisted for training.
However, the Army stated that Nazifi “never reported to the Depot for commencement of his training” and was never admitted into the programme.
Consequently, the Depot clarified it has “no record of his presence, participation, injury or death during training.”
In light of the situation, the Depot has called on the Gombe State Government and other relevant authorities to launch an investigation to determine where, when, and how the alleged death occurred, emphasising that such an incident did not happen within its premises.
The statement acknowledged that military training is rigorous by design, meant to build endurance and combat readiness.
While admitting that demanding training can, in rare instances, lead to casualties, the Army stressed this is not due to negligence.
It highlighted that robust safety measures, medical coverage, and risk-mitigation procedures are in place to protect trainees.
The public was urged to disregard the reports and avoid spreading unverified information that could mislead the public and damage the Nigerian Army’s reputation.
The Depot NA Zaria reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of all recruits undergoing training.