By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Nigerian Army has charged young soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) to maintain discipline, professional competence and commitment to continuous training as they proceed to their respective units and formations.
The Chief of Training, Nigerian Army (COT(A)), Major General Valentine Okoro, gave the charge during the graduation ceremony of Exercise Shining Star Course 12/2026 held at the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja.
The ceremony, held on Friday, September 18, 2026, marked the completion of an eight-week intensive training programme designed to consolidate the knowledge and skills acquired by the young soldiers during their recruit training.
Okoro, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Training, Linkages and Integration, Brigadier General Ukeagbu Igbokwe, described Exercise Shining Star as timely and relevant to the Nigerian Army’s efforts to develop disciplined, competent and combat-ready personnel capable of operating effectively in contemporary security environments.
He said the exercise provided the participants with an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills under realistic field conditions, while developing teamwork, leadership, endurance, initiative and sound decision-making.
The COT(A) urged the young soldiers to remain physically fit, mentally alert and professionally competent, while demonstrating loyalty to constituted authority and upholding the core values of the Nigerian Army.
He stressed that their conduct, both on and off duty, must reflect positively on the Service and help sustain the confidence Nigerians repose in the Nigerian Army.
Okoro also urged the soldiers to take every training opportunity seriously, obey lawful orders and continuously improve their individual and collective capabilities.
Earlier, the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General John Lar, commended the young soldiers, instructors and supporting staff for their dedication and commitment to the successful conduct of the programme, which commenced on July 27, 2026.
Lar said the course combined classroom instruction with practical exercises aimed at enhancing the professional knowledge, practical competence and confidence of the participants to perform their duties effectively and contribute meaningfully to Nigerian Army operations and training activities.
Also speaking, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff Training, AHQ Garrison Training School, Lieutenant Colonel Umar Adamu, disclosed that 45 young soldiers of the 90 RRI drawn from various departments, establishments and commands within Abuja participated in the course.
According to him, the participants received training in unit regimentation, basic infantry tactics, physical fitness, weapon handling, map reading, night operations and other essential military skills.
He added that the progress of the participants was assessed through weekly examinations, practical exercises and other activities throughout the training period.
Highlights of the graduation ceremony included a rescue mission demonstration by the young soldiers, coordinated push-ups, presentation of souvenirs to the SGOH and certificates to the graduands, as well as group photographs.
