The Nigerian Army has deployed the first batch of 300 personnel to India for specialised jungle and mountain warfare training as part of efforts to enhance troops’ combat proficiency in difficult terrains.
The training programme will cover a total of 600 personnel and is aimed at strengthening the Army’s capacity to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
According to a statement issued on Friday October 23 by the Army’s spokesperson Col. Appolonia Anele the first batch departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja on Thursday October 22 aboard two Indian Air Force aircraft: a C-17 and an Airbus A321.
‘The Coordinator Nigerian Military Training Support and Advisory Team Army Headquarters Department of Army Training Major General UG Yusuf who represented the COAS witnessed the departure alongside the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria’ the statement said.
The Army said the training underscored the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu to building a professional adaptable and combat-ready force capable of confronting terrorists insurgents and other criminal elements operating in forests mountainous areas and other challenging environments.
‘It also aligns with his Command Philosophy which prioritises operational effectiveness realistic training personnel development and enhanced combat readiness’ the statement added.
According to the Army the specialised programme is expected to equip the personnel with advanced jungle and mountain warfare skills improve operational manoeuvrability and strengthen their capacity to deny criminal elements safe havens in difficult terrains.
The statement added that the training would further reinforce Nigeria-India defence cooperation and support Shaibu’s efforts to sustain a resilient mission-ready Army capable of defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting lives and property.
It said arrangements were also underway to airlift the remaining 300 personnel to India for the training.