The Nigerian Army has begun a fresh round of pre-deployment training for troops, with authorities emphasising discipline and operational readiness to tackle security challenges across the country.
The exercise was inaugurated on February 23, 2026, at the Kontagora Military Cantonment.
The training was declared open by AGL Haruna, Commander of the Nigerian Army Training Centre, NATRAC, who said the Batch 2 Pre-Deployment Training would run for four weeks.
He explained that the programme would focus on special warfare skills, including battle drills, survival training, ground sign awareness, mountain warfare, convoy drills, marksmanship, base camp security and counter-ambush operations.
Addressing the troops, the commander stressed the importance of professional capacity and preparedness.
“The best form of welfare for troops is first class training,” he said, noting that the exercise forms part of efforts to enhance their ability to perform professionally and respond effectively to contemporary security challenges.
Haruna also warned participants to maintain discipline throughout the programme, stating that misconduct would not be tolerated.
“No form of indiscipline will be tolerated as defaulters will be sanctioned appropriately,” he said.
Haruna further urged trainees to properly maintain facilities and resources provided for the exercise. He added that the centre had made adequate arrangements, including infrastructure and structured training schedules, to ensure a robust learning experience.
He acknowledged the support of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, for providing strategic guidance to the centre, while commending instructors and personnel for their commitment to the welfare of trainees. The inauguration ceremony ended with cheers from participants and group photographs.
