By Atoyebi Nike
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to conducting regular and intensive combat training aimed at enhancing troop readiness for a wide range of military operations.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of troops who completed a 21-week intensive training exercise at the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC) in Kontagora, Niger State, Oluyede emphasized that the army would continue to prioritise combat preparedness through structured, mission-oriented training.
The training, dubbed “Exercise Fast Bolt III,” was specifically designed for soldiers of the Special Operations Battalion, who have now been designated as COAS Intervention Battalion 10.
Represented at the event by Major General Mayirenso Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSA YAMMA, Oluyede commended the graduating troops for their resilience and high performance during the training.
“The outstanding performance displayed by the troops affirms the effectiveness of our evolving training methodology,” he said. He noted that the duration of the exercise was extended from three months to six months to further deepen the soldiers’ operational competence and tactical proficiency.
Commander of NATRAC, Major General John Sokoya, also addressed the gathering, lauding the troops for their determination and endurance throughout the programme. He described NATRAC as an elite institution responsible for equipping military personnel with practical, mission-specific skills for present and future operations.
“This training reflects the COAS’ philosophy of enhancing combat readiness through consistency and operational realism,” Sokoya said, urging the troops to apply the knowledge and warrior ethos instilled in them as they prepare for future deployments.
The event also featured a moment of honour for Sergeant Joshua Danju, who was promoted to Staff Sergeant in recognition of his bravery. Danju had successfully recovered an armoured vehicle and vital weaponry during an enemy ambush at Kwana Dutse, earning him the commendation of senior military officers in attendance.
