Nigerian Army has commenced the deployment of 600 personnel to India for specialised jungle and mountain warfare training as part of efforts to strengthen its operational capacity against terrorists, bandits and other armed groups operating in difficult terrain across the country.
The Army said the initiative reflects the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to realistic training, personnel development and enhanced combat readiness.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the programme is aimed at improving the Army’s ability to tackle emerging security threats and effectively defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The first batch of 300 soldiers departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday aboard two Indian Air Force aircraft—a C-17 Globemaster and an Airbus A321.
Major General U.G. Yusuf, Coordinator of the Nigerian Military Training Support and Advisory Team at the Department of Army Training, represented the Chief of Army Staff at the departure ceremony. The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria was also present.
The specialised course is designed to equip the troops with advanced skills in jungle and mountain warfare, enabling them to manoeuvre effectively through forests, rugged landscapes and other challenging environments where criminal and insurgent groups often operate.
Military authorities believe the training will enhance the soldiers’ tactical abilities, improve combat effectiveness and better prepare them for complex operations in difficult terrain.
The programme also underscores the growing defence cooperation between Nigeria and India, which have maintained a long-standing partnership in military training, capacity building and defence collaboration.
Although the Army did not disclose the duration of the training, the institution where it will be conducted or the criteria for evaluating the trainees after their return, officials confirmed that arrangements are already in progress to airlift the remaining 300 personnel to India.
