In a bid to boost national security, the Nigerian Army has successfully graduated 604 Special Forces operatives following the completion of an intensive six-month training programme under the eighth session of the high-profile ‘Exercise Restore Hope.’
This initiative aims to strengthen national security and enhance operational readiness across the country.
The rigorous specialist training, conducted at the Nigerian Army Military Training Centre in Kachia, Kaduna State, covered both kinetic and non-kinetic warfare tactics, equipping the troops with advanced skills tailored to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
At the graduation ceremony held on Tuesday, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede—represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Major General Mayirenso Saraso—commended the troops for their unwavering dedication and mastery of modern military capabilities.
Highlighting the significance of the programme, Lt. Gen. Oluyede noted that the Special Forces had honed expertise in marksmanship, weapon handling, precision targeting, and coordinated firepower—skills critical to improving the effectiveness of ongoing and future military operations nationwide.
“These soldiers were meticulously selected from various units and formations within the Nigerian Army to undergo specialised training designed to address Nigeria’s complex security environment,” the COAS said.
He added, “Their deployment will significantly enhance operational outcomes in key theatres of conflict.”
Lt. Gen. Oluyede further stressed that ‘Exercise Restore Hope,’ held biannually, forms a vital part of the Army’s continuous capacity-building strategy aimed at combating insurgency, banditry, and other security threats facing Nigeria.
“The Special Forces have built upon their foundational soldiering skills to attain mission-ready capabilities that will boost the operational effectiveness of troops in the field,” he affirmed.
The Army Chief concluded by assuring that the newly graduated Special Forces will play a strategic role in strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational efficiency and national security efforts as the country intensifies its fight against insurgency and violent crime.
