Several newly recruited candidates into the Nigerian Army from Imo State have sustained varying degrees of injuries after the vehicle conveying them to the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State, was involved in a road accident.
The incident occurred on Saturday, June 27, 2026, while the recruits were on their way to begin their basic military training.
According to reports, the movement of the candidates was being coordinated under the supervision of Lieutenant Colonel P.D. Ngal.
Sources said the injured recruits had successfully completed the Army’s recruitment process and were heading to the training depot before the crash happened.
“The candidates from Imo State were on their way to Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria to commence training when the accident occurred,” a source familiar with the incident disclosed.
Videos circulating online showed some of the injured lying along the roadside and inside the damaged vehicle as emergency responders, motorists, and other travellers assisted in evacuating them.
The victims were later rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
As of the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the accident had not been confirmed, while the number of casualties remains unclear.
Military sources also expressed concern that some of the injured recruits could face possible disqualification from the Nigerian Army if their injuries are severe enough to prevent them from completing the rigorous military training.
The Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria serves as the main training ground for newly enlisted soldiers, where successful candidates undergo intensive military drills before being fully absorbed into active service.
The Nigerian Army has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
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