The Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Major General Abubakar Haruna, has inaugurated troops participating in Exercise FAST BOLT IV (Double Stream) at the Kontagora Military Cantonment Parade Ground.
According to the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations NATRAC, Major Godfrey Anebi Abakpa, the inauguration took place on Monday, 26th January, 2026.
The specialised training exercise is designed to reinvigorate and enhance the operational capacity of troops in confronting contemporary security challenges and multidimensional threats across the country.
In his opening remarks, Major General Haruna said the inauguration reaffirmed NATRAC’s unwavering mandate to adequately prepare Nigerian Army personnel to counter evolving asymmetric threats such as terrorism and insurgency. He disclosed that the exercise, which commenced on January 19, will run until May 8, 2026, spanning a period of 15 weeks and six days.
According to the Commander, the training will cover critical areas including battle drills, survival training, convoy drills, marksmanship, base camp security and counter-ambush operations.
Other components of the programme include responsible use of social media, prevention of human rights violations and abuses, as well as the Armed Forces of Nigeria gender policy, among others.
Major General Haruna explained that the training aligns with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, which seeks to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.
He noted that the exercise is vital to boosting troops’ confidence and equipping them with the requisite skills to address the nation’s prevailing security challenges.
The Commander assured that adequate infrastructure had been put in place to support a well-structured and robust training experience. He warned trainees against all forms of indiscipline, stressing that defaulters would be severely sanctioned. He also cautioned against the misuse of social media, which he said could bring disrepute to the Nigerian Army.
Major General Haruna charged instructors to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, instruction and ethical conduct to ensure the training remains relevant and effective. He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his continued support and strategic guidance to the Centre.
He also commended his principal staff officers, soldiers and administrative personnel for their commitment, urging them to give their best towards achieving the objectives of the exercise.
The inauguration ceremony concluded with three hearty cheers and a group photograph with the trainees.
