The Federal Government has initiated the training of 800 military officers as part of a newly established Special Operations Forces charged to counter terrorism, insurgency, transnational crimes and other asymmetric threats. The training, launched at Camp Kabala in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna signifies the first stage of a 2,400-strong elite unit selected from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, while speaking at the event stressed that the emerging nature of security setbacks requires a highly skilled force proficient at advanced tactics, intelligence-driven operations and rapid response missions. He portrayed the program as a strategic move to improve Nigeria’s military capacity in protecting national sovereignty, securing citizens as well as maintaining regional stability.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa underscored the significance of synchronizing kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities to contain modern warfare intimidations. He demonstrated confidence that the Special Operations Forces would play a key role in neutralizing terrorism and insurgency.
Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe while representing Kaduna State Governor lauded the initiative—maintaining that equipping the military with advanced training and resilience is crucial to confronting Nigeria’s evolving security threats.
