The Nigerian Army has deployed 87 newly trained soldiers to various theatres of Operation FANSAN YAMMA as part of efforts to strengthen ongoing security operations.

The soldiers, members of the 90 Regular Intake, successfully completed Exercise Shining Star X/26 at the 1 Division Training School, Dalet Barracks, Kawo, Kaduna.

The graduation ceremony was held on Friday, with the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, represented by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division, Brigadier General T.M. Opurum.

Opurum said the eight-week training was approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, to strengthen Army formations, improve operational readiness and build resilience, teamwork and professionalism among troops.

He said the training exposed the soldiers to field operations, live-fire drills, battle inoculation, land navigation, watermanship, tactical motorcycle operations and Improvised Explosive Device awareness.

The exercises, he added, were designed to prepare the soldiers for security challenges within the Division’s area of responsibility.

He said the trainees were also subjected to simulated combat fatigue, stress and sleep deprivation to test their endurance, mental alertness and cohesion.

Opurum urged the graduates to apply the skills acquired during the training, maintain discipline and loyalty, and comply with the Nigerian Army’s code of conduct and rules of engagement.

Earlier, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Physical Training and Divisional Training Officer, Lt.-Col. Pharouk Mohammed, said the trainees underwent intensive tactical, weapon-handling and counter-terrorism training.

He described the graduates as having met the required standards in character and learning and being prepared to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, the Course Leader, Private Kapnim Bitrus, thanked 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, before certificates were presented to the graduating soldiers.