The Nigerian Army has graduated 87 newly trained soldiers for deployment to various theatres of Operation FANSAN YAMMA as part of efforts to strengthen ongoing security operations.
The soldiers, who are members of the 90 Regular Intake, successfully completed Exercise Shining Star X/26 at the 1 Division Training School, Dalet Barracks, Kawo, Kaduna.
In a post obtained from the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Sunday, the graduation ceremony was held on Friday, with the Special Guest of Honour, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, represented by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division, Brigadier General TM Opurum.
In his address, Brigadier General Opurum said the training was approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to strengthen army formations, enhance operational readiness and build resilience, teamwork and professionalism among troops.
He said the eight-week training exposed the soldiers to a range of military exercises, including field operations, live-fire drills, battle inoculation, land navigation, watermanship, tactical motorcycle operations and Improvised Explosive Device awareness.
According to him, the exercises were designed to prepare the soldiers for the prevailing security challenges within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The GOC also noted that the training tested the soldiers’ endurance, mental alertness and cohesion through simulated combat fatigue, stress and sleep deprivation.
He urged the graduates to apply the skills acquired during the training, maintain discipline and loyalty, and adhere strictly to the Nigerian Army’s code of conduct and rules of engagement.
Earlier, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Physical Training and Divisional Training Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Pharouk Mohammed, said the trainees underwent intensive tactical, weapon-handling and counter-terrorism training.
He described the 87 graduates as soldiers who had met the required standards in character and learning and were prepared to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
Speaking on behalf of the graduands, the Course Leader, Private Kapnim Bitrus, expressed appreciation to the commanders and instructors for their guidance throughout the training.
The ceremony featured tactical demonstrations, including a rapid rifle stripping and assembly competition and a counter-ambush display.
The event ended with the presentation of certificates to the graduating soldiers and a group photograph.
