The Nigerian Army has graduated 87 newly trained soldiers for deployment to various operational theatres under *Operation FANSAN YAMMA* to reinforce ongoing efforts against insecurity.
The soldiers, members of the 90 Regular Intake, successfully completed the eight-week *Exercise Shining Star X/26* at the 1 Division Training School, Dalet Barracks, Kawo, Kaduna State.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Chief of Staff, 1 Division, Brigadier General T.M. Opurum—representing the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander of Sector 1 *Operation FANSAN YAMMA*, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase—stated that the training was approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to enhance operational readiness, resilience, and professionalism.
Brigadier General Opurum explained that the rigorous course exposed the troops to field operations, live-fire drills, battle inoculation, land navigation, watermanship, tactical motorcycle operations, and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) awareness to prepare them for prevailing security challenges.
He noted that the exercise tested the soldiers’ endurance, mental alertness, and cohesion through simulated combat fatigue and sleep deprivation. He urged the new troops to maintain strict discipline, loyalty, and adherence to the military’s rules of engagement.
Earlier, the Divisional Training Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Pharouk Mohammed, reported that the graduands underwent intensive tactical and counter-terrorism training, satisfying all required standards in character and learning.
Representing the graduands, Course Leader Private Kapnim Bitrus expressed gratitude to the division’s leadership and instructors for their mentorship.
The event featured tactical demonstrations, including rapid rifle stripping and assembly competitions, as well as a counter-ambush display, before concluding with the presentation of certificates.
